I didn't know about that valve issue when my mechanic had the cover off so I can't report on that.  But evidently that wasn't the issue, but good to know.  I do have a new problem to ask you experts about.  I live in a small town without a Subaru authority so your input would be especially helpful.  The problem is my engine is now having a really low idle.  In the past each time the battery was disconnected it took the car about 6 to 10 starts and then it would get itself back to perfect idle.  Its been almost a week now and its not resumed course.  If you have any advice I can pass on to my mechanic I'd appreciate it.  Can the fuel flow be manually adjusted in the engine or is it all computer driven?  Incidentally I no longer have a check engine light on.