LilRedRu2

No leaks, johnceggleston. I agree with your opinion, too. We prefer the Subaru over the Blazer. 86bratman: the noise is most pronounced under load (uphill acceleration). After acceleration under load, coasting will enable the noise to quiet down. On a level road surtace, light acceleration has little to no effect on creating the noise. It will usually remain quiet. To all of you: THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST AND SUPPORT!

Thanks to all for the responses. I was thinking along the same lines as gbhrps. Sometimes it's good to hear someone else say what I am thinking. 86bratman - interesting information. I will keep that in mind as I seek a mechanic qualified for the job. (Until recently, I had an independent Subaru expert. He moved, now I am looking for someone else.) The sound is a low pitched siren. The sound will come and go. Lately it seems to be more steady. The noice is not a low hum but more like a dull siren. Hope that description helps. Do you still think it is a bearing?

Hey everyone! Just joined the USMB and excited to be here. I have a situation and a question. The situation: my 97 Legacy Outback is lean and clean but the rear gearbox is making a whining noise. It is my understanding that the rear axle assembly is not repairable, only replaceable. Is it worth replacing this with a junkyard part or would this be more a expensive repair than the value of the car? I have another possible option for consideration: I was recently gifted a 2002, very clean Chevy Blazer by a friend. I am wondering if I could sell or trade the Blazer and the Legacy Outback toward the purchase of a used Impreza. I have limited $$ to work with, so if the vehicles could carry most of the financial weight, maybe this could be a win-win for me and one of you subie dudes out there. Last question: I live in NE Pennsylvania. Anyone know of a Subie expert in this area?