Here is my 1985 BRAT that I call Shadow.  it's all stock except for the Weber and the GM Alternator swap.

 

I've spent the last few weekends detailing and shining.  Just in time for non-stop rain here in NC.  Kind of depressing to think that I'll have to put Shadow up for the winter soon.

 

 

 

You can see my 96 Impreza Outback in the reflection here.  Unfortunately, shes not as clean as the BRAT but she runs as smooth as the day I drove her off the lot.

 

I did a little detailing of the engine compartment this weekend.  I could spend a bit more time on this for sure!  I'd love to detail and wax the underside of the hood.

 

 

I had the stock 8 spoke wheels sandblasted and painted.  I put new lugs on this weekend and shined the tires.  ($180 for a set of four 13" Kendas!)

 

Yesterday I replaced the tailgate badge with this restored one.

 

 

Still several items on my to do list.  Lots of shining and polishing.  New axles soon.  Dented fender replaced with a new one I have in hand.  Just needs painted.  I have a new dashboard frame for the one i have that is cracked. Need to troubleshoot the fuel gauge.  Otherwise Shadow is looking like she'll last a long time.

 

She's gorgeous!  Beautiful pix (especially the cute girls and the happy pup!) Thanks for sharing.

Beautiful looking BRAT!

 

Fuel gage issue may be at the sending unit connections at the rear of the tank.

2 connectors there, Fuel level, Low Fuel Light.

Simple 1 wire bullet connector for each.

 

I have found them to be severely corroded.

Looks great! It is a shame that the major brand mud and snow tires are long since out of production. Back in the 80's I ran a set intended for an Oldsmobile that were for 13in wheels but larger than the OEM size and had a fairly aggressive tread, long since gone from the market.Great job repainting the badge, what paints did  you use?

Thanks!  Truth be told, I purchased the repainted badge from a local fellow who painted it with acrylics and then clear coated.  He did a pretty nice job on it so I decided to save a little time and use his rather than repaint mine.  One of these days I may repaint the one I removed and sell it for a few bucks on eBay... for more car parts LOL.  Thanks for the tip on the fuel gauge.  I'll crawl under there this weekend and have a look.  Also, I learned about the EGR light on this forum... will try the reset procedure soon.  How will i know if the valve is actually bad?

Very cool, the  1st Subaru I ever rode/drove in was a Brat, sand dunes under power lines in Juyrhzee. Hard to find any of those around here without serious body issues. Continued luck w/ your survivior.

Edited November 6, 201510 yr by OLsubedrivr

Welcome and that's a Great Brat! I miss my 85 Brat!