i want to start by getting some kyb forester or outback struts. do i need any new mounting hardware or can i throw them right on

Pretty much can throw them right on. May need fastcam bolts for camber adjustment. Going too much earlier, like before 95, means the rear strut mounts may be different, but, Forester and Outback weren't around then either. Too much later and the rears went to multilink and would not fit. Sometimes mounting points for the ABS sensor wires are different/absent but zip ties can work.

awesome. thanks for the fast response