Olnick

Only difference I know of is that the 2.2L became an interference design with the '97 model year. Not necessarily bad, just something to be aware of

Thanks for the effort, joeo. Pictures make such a great difference when explaining a step-by-step procedure like this.

Gee, I never knew that. Oh well, I guess ignorance is bliss.

Do what the rest of us do, Tex. Call your kid!

Congratulations! And congratulations! I'll give you my stock answer--look for the best 2.2L Legacy wagon you can find, 1990 through '96. Throw a few bucks into tune-up/fix-up and you'll still be well within your budget, plus you'll probably have years of trouble free driving. Cruise this board and ask lotsa' questions--just about everything you'd want to know about Subarus here and nice people who are happy to share. Welcome and good luck!

So, what was the fix?

Welcome! I seem to recall some threads about roof racks and bike carriers here a few months ago. Use the search function (top of the page) and you'll probably find some good background information to get you going. Good luck!

If you're going back to the dealership where you bought the car, talk to them about the problem for sure. It may be covered under warranty--or at worst the problem will be "on the record" with them, which could benefit you down the road.

1) Am not sure about rebuild kits for PS pump but keep searching--new ones have gotten danged expensive. Or maybe try a different junkyard one? 2) I don't think the belts would cause shudder--think that's more a function of the pump itself, maybe bad bearings inside. 3) What does the "whine" sound like? Mis-adjusted belts usually make a loud squeal or screech sound. If it's not that, you might try tcspeer's suggestion and see if you can pinpoint the noise (just be super careful reaching down into a running engine!) Good luck.

A bad PS pump can cause shudder in the steering. Mine went bad awhile back and a new pump cured it. I'm wondering if the whine might be caused by worn or mis-adjusted v-belts? Have you checked them or changed them lately?

I thought all US cars were required to be OBD-II compliant starting with the '96 model year. Some manufacturers started early, Subaru in '95--at least with the Legacy.

Not sure about the 2.0 but over here, on the 2.2s at least, starter is to the rear of the motor near the firewall on the left (our driver's side.) Comes off with two bolts (two different sizes!) One is easiest reached from under the hood (bonnet), the other from underneath the car. Are you sure the starter itself is bad? Could be something as simple as burned/pitted contacts on the solenoid--a relatively easy and inexpensive fix. Good luck.

Congrats TROGDOR! I think you're going to be very happy. Although I still kinda' miss our pair of '85s.

Ain't it the truth!

Hey OB99W, don't apologize for being "too basic!" If it's something I know, then it's a great refresher. If it's something I don't know--which is ususally the case--then I learn. That's what I love about USMB land . . . all the sharing and caring! Aloha.

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Thoroughly confused now, kimjack? Truth is, Subarus are generally very good vehicles--rugged, dependable, easy to fix, safe, comfortable, fun to drive. That's why there are so many of us here on the board who absolutely love them. But there is what many perceive to be a design weakness in the engines used in a range of model years, unfortunately it includes the '97 and '98 Outbacks! It can result in the dreaded head gasket failure and a rather expensive repair bill. That doesn't mean every vehicle will have the problem--many don't, but you never know for sure. If you really like one of the Outbacks I'd suggest you take it to an independent mechanic and pay $100 (or whatever) for him to give it a thorough inspection. Whatever you do, feel free to come back here and ask questions. The folks on this board will bend over backwards to help you. Good luck with your decision.

Good going, Gnuman. Keep it up and one day Emily will be a brand new car! Aloha!

Okay, I can't shut up any longer! Rip, my man, since you seem to be open to options and are seeking honest input, I strongly second what subeman90 just suggested--Legacy 2.2 with 5 speed manual tranny. Any model year from the beginning ('89/'90) through '96. Be aware that with the '97 model the 2.2 was slightly re-designed and became an interference engine for its last few years of production. Ah yes, the original "bulletproof" EJ 2.2--best engine Subaru ever created. Good luck with your decision. Let us know whichever way you go!

Ah, don't listen to cookie and nipper. They're just realists!

If you haven't already I'd suggest you get SOA involved in this. Good luck.

Nice piece of engineering, WA!

Maybe it's my navigational skills or lack of car parts knowledge, but I have difficulties with the online catalogs. So I just call 1stsubaruparts' tollfree number. The fellow at the counter--I think it was Jason--is super pleasant and helpful. Maybe he can help you track it down.

Your analysis is spot-on, ERICH. I'm a conservative old fut who drives a 2.2L '95 Legacy L wagon with 5-speed MT so I'm biased. I'm also thrilled every time I get on the highway with it--it's smooth as silk and virtually bulletproof. Personally, I wouldn't consider buying a 2.5L Suby. But keep searching here on the board--lots of opinions on the new 2.5 HG. My suggestion to you, under your circumstances, would be to look for a mature (get that, cookie?!!) Legacy 2.2 that's in decent condition and throw a few bucks into tuneup and maintenance. Then when your business is wildly successful you can go buy something newer and shinier! By the way, be aware that the last few years of the Suby 2.2--starting with model year '97--are interference engines. Good luck with the business and keep posting your feelings and questions.