I'm having a hard time getting started on my 98 Legacy L wagon. It just sits in the drive getting driven one a week 3 miles or something. It has oil leaks, torque bind, Now it sounds like a u-joint is gonna pop if you turn tight... but it's paid for, and just my style so I'd like to resurrect her.

 

I plan to just jack it up saturday and see what I find underneath. I've read some threads about finding oil leaks. That sounds like an adventure. Also read about changing axles... I'll take some pics and post my findings. Anyone have advice on what to look for?

 

Oh and she has 150K. I think I had the front shafts replaced about 5 years/20K miles ago. I think I had new discs on the front around the same time.

 

I wouldn't mind lifting her a little like even just the Outback struts/springs deal. I hear that lifts a couple inches right?

Clicking or popping from under the car in a turn usually indicates a dying axle. Check for torn boots. Check the u-joints for excessive slop. And since you're under there, look for all the areas of heavy gunk buildup. There's probably an oil leak somewhere nearby.