Alex28

My 96 Legacy Wagon (automatic) makes loud knock sounds on any turns. The gearshift works but it "jumps" as you switch gears. I've been told by one mechanic that I need a new transmission and another that my trans is fine. I was also told that I need a new rear differential, then another mechanic told me that I don't. I recently removed the rear drive shaft and the sound went away, but this leaves me with no 4WD, so I put it back in and the grinding/knocking on any right or left turns came back. I guess the least expensive option is to take out the rear drive shaft again and don't fix anything. Will this be a problem long-term? Will it wear out any other parts?

I was told this morning that my 1996 2.5L Outback Legacy Wagon needs a new rear differential. I want to avoid the buying an expensive part and I already have a 1996 Outback Impreza that I would like to use for parts. Can I use the rear differential from my 96 Outback Impreza (hatchback) in my Outback Legacy Wagon from the same year? ...are any other parts okay to interchange? I'm new in this forum, but I've read a lot of great posts today so I'm hoping the you can help me with this question! Thanks!