hello, first post here. anyways, i just picked up an '88 GL with 56k miles on it, yes 56k. anyways, i had to replace the boot on the car immediatly and spent like $150 at the mechanic which wasn't real pleasing since i knew the part was only $20. anyways, i want to start working on my own car because these cars seem relatively easy to work on and i am a pretty handy guy. so, my question to you is: what are some basic tools you would start off with and where would you suggest starting as far as getting to know the car?
also, when my boot was replaced the mechanic said there should be a shield between the boot and the converter because it gets so hot down there. this makes sense, but it doesn't look like it is missing anything and i have read other threads addressing these heat issues, so im not sure if i am missing something or if it is just a design error on subarus part.