Schwinnbob

Hi: Do you have the part numbers for the tensioner and idler? Belt will be due soon so will probably do them at the same time.

I am in the same situation, I bought a 03 VDC wagon 2 months ago with 59K. They wanted 15K but got them down to 12.5K. I am going to my local Subaru dealer who for the 30/60/90 does all the routine inspections, changes the plugs (at 60K) PCV, trans flush with filter, both diff fluid replaced, coolant replaced with a new thermostat, brake flush, engine oil/filter, rotate tires, air filter, fuel filter. They do all that for $500 which seems reasonable.

I could never get a correct reading on my oil until I did what someone suggested which was pull the dipstick out preferably engine cold walk away. Come back 10 minutes later and then check it. Mine always looked way high until doing it this way.

Hello: I have had the Goodyears on my 00 wagon for about 10K now. They are excellent in everything we have had here in OH. Have not had them in any kind of deep snow though. I had a problem getting them balanced (took six tries) but finally was able to. One thing is they pick up rocks like nobodys business. Ride is a little stiffer than the OEM Firestones but not bad at all just different.

Hello: He is right it is 8MM. I did mine a month ago and did not even come close to needing to use them. I couple hits with a rubber mallet and they were loose. That was a good thing as only one of mine had the threaded holes. Even though I bought the car with 9K I guess one was replaced at some point before I got the car. Good luck with the top bolts that hold the caliper brackets, they can be a bear!

I have them on my 00 Outback wagon and they work great. However myself and a couple others have had issues with them not balancing properly (have had them balanced 5 times in 8K but still get a vibration in the steering wheel above 60 mph) So my suggestion would be to make absolutely sure they balance to your satisfaction in the first few weeks so that you can try another set if not.

Hi: I have the same pinging in my 00 also. I have been using Shell premium which greatly reduces (almost eliminates) it but also greatly reduces the thickness of my wallet. But for me it's worth it to not hear the ping. Changing the plugs and wires ( Subaru OEM) did nothing to reduce the ping. I agree that colder plugs would likely help.

Just taking the drain plug out and draining will get you almost exactly 4 quarts. Don't know about the filter, Subaru says it lasts the life of the trans. Not sure where to get it for $5 they are over $20 at the discount Sub places. I usually drain mine of the 4 quarts and put 4 new in. I do this 2 or 3 times a few weeks apart. Not as good as a full change but good enough for me.

Hello: Just this last week put the Goodyear TripleTred Assurance on my 00 Outback wagon. Normally would not recommend a tire after 100 miles and a week but have had these same tires on my Grand Prix for 6 months. They are an excellent tire. Had a heavy rain storm and never even noticed it was wet! They do make the ride slightly stiffer but corner a little better. These were the top rated all season tire in the last Consumer Reports test. A little pricey but 80,000 mile tire. I got my local Discount Tire store to match the Tire Rack price ($109 each $500 out the door) so was happy with the deal. A great source of info for tires is Tirerack.com Bob

You might also want to try the detailing clay bar treatment. I have removed overspray with good results and it leaves the clear coat glass smooth. I use Mequiers but other companys make it too. Good luck!