bjwirth

The hardest part (or I should say most cumbersome) is taking off the center console. I'm not familiar with the 96 legacy, but there's probably a screw under the cup holder, maybe some on the side or on the bottom- just look around. A panasonic head unit will be not necessarily be easier/harder than another brand to install. I would second the recomendation to get a wiring adapter- it just makes it easier, especially if you want to put the old radio back in. All the wires match up- including the power antenna wire. It really is that easy.

no offense, but I agree with the dip****. For 22 watts, 16 g wiring is fine. I had 40 watts/ch going to the fronts and used 16 g with no problems. The subs were a different issue of course. If you want to upgrade to 12 g, that's ok- I would say, just do the front speakers if you're driving them off a big amp and running loud all the time. Don't bother with the rears- just a waste of money and effort in my opinion. I think if you heard an improvement going to the 12 g wire, it was probably because something was wrong with your stock wiring. I don't know what kind of set up you have, or what you are looking for in a sound system, but you won't start noticing significant improvements until you upgrade the rest of your system. Brian

Hi everyone, A couple of months ago, I purchased a 2000 Forrester w/ 60k miles and automatic transmission. In the morning after a cold night, I have a difficult time shifting out of "PARK." The best way I can describe it is if I tried to shift without pressing the brakes. It's just kinda stuck and won't go into REVERSE. I hear clicking like the shift lock is working (or maybe not working). After some "finnessing," I can get the the car out of park. Once the shifter is not "frozen," I have no problems. I can shift in and out of park no problem. I can leave the car at work all day and if the temp is in the 30's or higher, I have no problems shifting when I start the car again. The problem only occurs after really cold nights (20's or less). Has anyone heard of this, or have any idea what's going on? Thanks, BJ

I called SOA (before I read this post) and they told me that there was a "good will" program in place where cars just out of warranty could get certain repairs done. He didn't promise me anything but led me to beleive there might be a chance to get the repair done for free or a reduced rate. The rep told me this had to be done through the dealer. When I asked the service manager about this, he told me they only did this for "good customers" (I have never been there before nor did I buy my car from them). So am I getting the shaft from SOA (because they did not tell me avout this 100k gasket warrenty) or from my local dealer (because they are being petty)? Any official reference to this 100k warranty would be REALLY appreaciated. Thanks, BJ

I have a 00 forester w/ 65000 miles which has been diagnosed with the head gasket leak. From what I have read from previous messages, this leak is external and tends to pop up when the weather gets cold. My (stupid) question is this: If I watch the coolant level and wait until the weather warms up again, will the leak go away? Do I risk any further damage by not replacing the gasket. I am strapped for cash right now after the holidays and traveling so my budget will be tight for the next few months. thanks BJ