First would like to say hello and compliment this site. Now on to my questions. I have a 97 outback wagon that I have begun to use as my tool and equipment carrier. My part time business is doing small commercial tennant upfits. This requires me to carry many tools and equipment on a daily basis. I would like to beef up the suspension and find out what the largest tire upgrade would be in stock form. Do I need a lift? This car will see some of my own logging roads for fun and some rough construction sites for work. Thanks for reading and any advice.

Some of the auto parts retail stores use to sell coil spring helpers. Basically, a piece of rubber that went between the coils. Maybe these would help.

 

A metals tech guy (welder) can also heat the springs up to make them ride higher.

Will a 205/75/r15 fit stock rims without any problems? How about 215/75s? Also looking for a simple rear suspension upgrade. Thanks.

Also looking for a simple rear suspension upgrade. Thanks.

I recall some time ago of a guy posting that Whiteline (I believe) had made stiffer, higher load capacity springs for the Outback. You could try them.

 

You can also get a stiffer sway bar from Whiteline. I put on Hairpin Racing Aluminum endlinks as well.

 

If you are going to be hauling stuff, I'd recomment synthetic ATF and a tranny cooler. These cars aren't really up to this sort of duty in my opinion, but they can do it with some reasonable steps and driving.

 

Commuter (97 OB)