1 Lucky Texan

manufacturers probably change suppliers occasionally so, not certain. In the past, Akebono and Tokico I think were brake component suppliers.

maybe the waterpump's leak-hole is where the problem is? I think it can leak EITHER oil or water depending on which side's seal is compromised. but yeah, I think a JDM engine is a great fix. A DIY repair could be a fun project for some people, but with more risk.

I think OEM is Akebono, good stuff but might be pricey compared to Centric. Name Brand Ceramic pads should be OK. StopTech has some affordable 'street performance pads'.

can you get Centric? good stuff. try not to sit at a RR xing or long stop light with the pads clamped to already hot brakes. 'warping' is almost always uneven pad material deposition caused by that. Do a cool-down run after aggressive braking - or use the handbrake to hold the car stopped if the discs are hot. https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwjryoKzvNb7AhWUnWoFHXLUBfIQFnoECBgQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcentricparts.com%2Fgetmedia%2Fbd69395a-b65c-481d-93f7-b26b1bd0638d%2FCentric_and_APC_Technical_Whitepaper_B1-Warped-Brake-Disc-8-2018_1.pdf&usg=AOvVaw2Syl_CnageQ47I6fsJZy3W

I have no help, but there is a LR in the movie The Gods Must Be Crazy that has no starter and no parking brake....leads to some interesting comedic moments.

"it's more fun to drive a slow car fast than a fast car slow" "Stand on it 'til you smell stink!"

used oil analysis could be definitive. high aluminum = piston skirt

some folks use a ladder to rig a way to support the gate - be careful regardless of how you proceed.

hack, IN THIS USAGE, may be about the same age as McGuyver.

ask here, , over at www.subaruoutback.org, at NASIOC, maybe evn the forester and legacy forums. Put a WTB (want to buy) in the classifieds. But finding a 15" wheel will be a challenge I think. The new rims might come with rubber so....just depends on what's around. Maybe check Ebay too. shipping will be crazy expensive unless local pickup or a meet-up is possible.

dang! I do have a low opinion of radiator packaging - but limited to 2 experiences. But that is p!55 poor handling right there.

I've also read the gasket must be OEM, metal type - not paper WP gasket. others will correct me if I'm wrong

if you can WARM the bolts, maybe even just a little, then spray with your penetrant of choice, when the cooling starts the interface may pull penetrant inside.

so, didn't even last long enough to zipper the teeth off 3rd gear huh?

If the Baja FP is like the OBW, could be a 'cap/o-ring' problem on the bottom of the pump assy.

yeah, intermittent relay, ground, or ???? sucks

starter may just need solenoid parts

+1 for Centric

Maybe NASIOC would be a good place to list it. Some WRX swappers there I'm sure.

what about parking on an incline?

they do seem to be on Amazon - 19 to 25 bucks. Could be an easier return process if you receive a dud. Also, more reviews to dig thru....fyi

sometimes, I throw ebay items into my cart and wait a few days - about 20% of the time, I'll get a message offering a lower price.

I once poured 1 and 1/2 quarts of oil on the ground changing oil on my dad's truck. Jumped under there and put the plug back in, went to the house, "dad, we're gonna need more oil! mom, can you get oil outta this shirt!"

I've read that a 'hub tamer' type tool, for use on the car, is often preferred. Maybe rent-able?

you seem very experienced but, the usual question for posts like this is, are you checking fluid trans level while idling?