jimkasper

About three weeks ago had the timing belt, water pump, thermostat, plugs and wires done. Thanks again, Jim

Last week, my '98 Outback (58,700 miles) started to flash the ATF Temp light 16 times on startup. The light then went out and would not flash again until the next startup. I did a search on this, read the threads, and prepared myself for an expensive repair. The AT fluid had last been changed at about 37,000 miles and was pink with no burned smell. I did not notice any torque bind, but I put the FWD fuse in as a precaution. I took the car to GrandPrix Subaru in Hicksville NY. (Thanks to Nipper for his offline recommendation of this dealer). When I picked up the car, the dealers' work order reported "ran diagnostics, found torque signal code out of range with rear speed sensors. Removed FWD fuse, roadtested vehicle OK". Cost $110 for the diagnosis. I am not sure if the code was cleared by the dealer, or the computer reset itself upon removal of the fuse. In any case, the ATF light has been acting normally for the last few days of driving. Any ideas on why this happened or the likelihood of the fault reapearing in the near future? I plan to have the tranny fluid replaced next month at inspection time. Thanks, Jim Kasper

I have a '98 Outback (2.5) that I purchased used in 2002 with about 38,000 miles on it. Piston slap when cold since purchase. I now have about 53,000 miles on it and although it still sounds like an old Mercedes diesel when cold, I have had with no problems to date. jimkasper

Re #2 - This was a post I copied as my mirror was also loose. "I don't know if you have the same set up as my 97 OB, but my mirror has a "clamshell" affair for the ball socket at the back of the mirror. There is a Torx headed fastener that holds things together. T120 size IIRC. Try tightening that up. Worked for me. Commute" Hope this helps jimkasper

I had a flat recently in my '98 Outback auto trans and had to steal a fuse to put in the FWD fuse box while the doughnut was on. Can anyone tell me what size fuse I should purchase to keep exclusively for the FWD fuse and can I purchase it at any auto supply store? Thanks, Jim Kasper

I got my Outback in to my regaular mechanic for an inspection and a Mobil One oil change yesterday (I can almost hear that boxer thanking me for the new Mobil One as I drive on down the road.) My mechanic did a load test on the alternator and said it was coming up about 14, and all is well. I guess I was being set up for a new alternator when I bought the battery. The alternator was originally a recall item, but was taken care of by the first owner. Thanks for all your replies and suggestions. Jim Kasper

1998 Outback, 50,100 miles. I inadvertently left the drivers door ajar for two days and completely drained my three year old battery. After a jump, the AAA guy said it might not hold a charge, so I elected to replace it. At the station, (not my regular mechanic) a load test showed the alternator putting out 12.9 volts(?) at idle and 13.7-13.9 when the engine was revved. He recommended a new alternator. Are my voltage levels much below specs? I am going to get it checked by my regular mechanic at my scheduled oil change next week. If the alternator needs to be replaced, would a rebuilt unit be OK or are the Subaru units superior. Thanks, Jim Kasper