Mr onetwo

I just put my 2003 Forester up on the lift and to my horror there are rust holes thru both sides of the frame/cradle (not sure what to call this part?) up by the engine. You can stick your finger right thru it! The rest of the metal assembly is sound.Is this a replaceable thing or is it death for the car. I do not have any desire to tear the entire front of the car off to replace. I can cut my losses right now and start the search for a rust free car or repair/replace it if it is not too involved....please help me with knowledge!!!!

I am working on a 2003 Forester XS with a blown engine. It has a rebuilt auto with less than 40K on it and the body is rust free, so it is worth bringing back to life. Has anyone ever tried to drop the engine/trans as a unit out thru the bottom of the car? I have a MaxJax and overhead bridge crane in my shop....I just think it might be easier to drop it as opposed to pulling it out thru the top. Thoughts....

Hello to all, I just picked up a super clean '03 X with a seized motor for $300. Body and interior are great....no rust at all! Rust is the overiding factor here in the land of salt/brine so this is great! The car has 199K on it, but you would never know it! Has a rebuilt AT 40K ago.It's going to make a great winter rebuild project. Car is complete, except for a few very minor items.I just spent the morning downloading the FSM, so I am ready to go. I am sure I will have questions as I go along. I have owned several Subarus over the years, but never did much work on them. I have a fully equipped shop with bridge crane and a 2 post lift, so I am stoked!!!