Hello -
Right now I own a 1998 Toyota Tacoma with the V6 and 4x4. It's an extended cab vehicle and I've added 31inch All Terrains. I live in the mid-atlantic and the majority of my off roading takes place on forest roads and Jeep trails located within a national forest. These trails (most) are suitable for stock or slightly modified vehicles.
I'm growing tired of wheeling my daily driver, even though it has held up well over the years thankfully. I am looking around for another vehicle that I could use for light off roading (continuation of trips to the national forest), hunt trips, and camping.
This brings me to my idea of buying a fairly new (2000 or newer) Subaru wagon, modifying it, and using it off road. How reliable are Subarus that have over 100,000 miles on them? Are there any engines to stay away from? What is the ground clearence on a stock Subaru wagon?
If I were to modify one, I would add on the four inch lift that I've read about in these forums. What size tires will such a lift allow me to run without rubbing? Are there skid plates available? The place that I off road at has a lot of rocks in the trail and therefore I am nervous about the ground clearence and underbody of the Subaru. Are D-Shackles mountable on the frame of the Subaru for recovery?
Thank you