J DUFUR

I own a 1997 Legacy Outback 2.5 liter with 96K miles. I have never had a problem with the cooling system or the head gaskets. My son-in-law owns a similar 96 Outback and is selling his because several mechanics etc. have told him to dump it before it costs him a lot of money in repairs. They say the 1996 - 1999 2.5 engine has severe porblems with head gaskets. I love my outback and want to keep it. Should I be worried?

I have a 1997 legacy outback. I am hearing a creaking noise in the front right as the car goes down the road. I had a shadetree mechanic look at it and he thinks it is the control arm bushing just aft of the front right wheel. It is leaking a clear viscous fluid. He said that was causing the noise and should be replaced, followed by a front end alignment. Is this a correct diagnosis? Is it a dangerous situation? Should I have all the other bushings replaced and aligned ont time? I live on St.John in the Virgin Islands. The roads are somooth but very curvey. The car has 90K miles on it and has been properly maintained. Any input would be appreciated. Thanks J D

Hello I live on St. John in the US Virgin Islands. I moved down here and brought our 1997 Outback with us. From reading these posts it seems that I need a new Duty C Solenoid. Problem is that there is no Subaru dealer here anymore. This dealer still works on Subarus' and has offered to work on the car if I get the parts. I need a list of necessary parts to buy and if possible a source. Thanks.