Thanks for everyone's input, I really appreciate it. As an update, I tightened up the carrier plate till it was really tight using a hammer and modified large screwdriver. Had the car lifted, wheel off the ground and kept turning it, wiggling the inner CV up and down. It feels about right but the other side CV is a little too loose for me. It also doesn't appear to be in the same position where it was when I loosened it. I planned to talk to the local subaru mechanic about him finishing the job however he was killed in a motorcycle accident about 10 days ago, may Joe rest in peace.
Moving forward, I plan to make a tool and drive it. About once a week, will check things out and maybe try adjusting it. I have this next week off and hope to talk to a retired subaru mechanic about this. I am curious about what the shop manual says about adjusting this? I imagine there are dial indicator tolerances and other measurable 'things' to get it perfect.
The reality, this car has 170k miles and isn't in great shape but serves an important need as local transportation around our small town for my HS daughter. We hope to keep an eye on this and I may find another mechanic I trust. The nearest dealership is in the next state, 2 hours away and they will screw you every chance they can, I hate doing any business with them. The best option may be to purchase a replacement transaxle from the wrecking yard? I don't think I want my daughter taking this car to college next year and be 6 hours away if she needs a vehicle rescue.
Thanks again and if you have any other suggestions or thoughts, please let me know - my mind reading skills are bad, just ask my wife.
Ken