Somac's '04 Outback Wagon - How to Ruin a Daily Driver

[Somac]

Just picked up a 2004 Subaru Outback wagon this week. It's a Limited trim, EJ251, 5MT, Granite Black Pearl (54A) exterior, and black leather interior. 134,000 miles to start with and fairly clean rust-wise. Only thing aftermarket is an unknown short shifter with blown-out-as-can-be shifter bushings and some base model Legacy headlights.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/03/XHiAR5I-1.jpg

This is my first Subaru and I picked it mainly because it's slow and NA and makes for a good road trip car - perfect for DD duty... except I can't leave anything alone so I'm probably going to ruin that by modifying it beyond what I planned. I like cars that can handle so most of what I'll be doing to the car are suspension, chassis, and braking mods, with some minor aesthetic stuff.


My realistic current plans:
Updated 10/02/17

Exterior:

USDM Outback headlights - Done
JDM GT-B tail lights - Done
JDM GT-B Type-D headlights - Done
JDM GT-B Type-D hood - Done
JDM GT-B Type-D front bumper - Done
JDM GT-B Type-D front lip - Done
JDM GT-B Type-D fenders - Not going on
JDM GT-B spoiler - Done
JDM Power folding mirrors
Paint job - Obsidian Black Pearl



Interior:

JDM Type-D black face meter - Done
JDM STI door sills - Done
JDM Momo shift knob - Done
JDM Momo steering wheel - Done
JDM Type-D headlight leveling switch - Waiting on install
JDM Power folding mirror switch - Waiting on install
Black trim replacing wood trim - Done
STI aluminum shifter bezel - Ordered
STI shift boot - Ordered
WRX aluminum pedals - Waiting on install



Suspension/chassis:

JDM Legacy GT-B Bilstein struts - Done
JDM STI pink springs - Done
H&R Sport springs - Waiting on install
Cusco front strut bar - Done
Cusco rear strut bar
JDM Legacy GT-B aluminum control arms - Waiting on install
Whiteline BSF15 22mm adjustable front sway bar - Done
Whiteline BSR12XZ 20mm adjustable rear sway bar - Done
Whiteline KLC32 heavy duty sway bar links - Done
Whiteline KTA124 rear control arms - Done
Whiteline KCA335 Com-C top hats - Done
Whiteline KCA313 roll center/bump steer correction kit - Waiting on install
Megan MRS-SU-0511 camber arms - Done



Brakes/wheels:

JDM front 4 pot brakes - Waiting on install
JDM rear 2 pot brakes - Waiting on install
StopTech 950.47005 Front Stainless Brake Lines
StopTech 950.47505 Rear Stainless Brake Lines
STI stainless brake lines - Waiting on install
Team Dynamics Pro Race 1.2 17x8 +40 - Done
Dunlop Sport Maxx 235/45R17 tires - Done
Muteki SR48 lug nuts - Done



Engine/drivetrain:

eBay header - Done
Tsudo midpipe - Done
Bosal Brospeed muffler - Done
Custom 2.25" midpipe - Done
Kartboy short throw shifter and bushings - Done
Turn In Concepts updated shifter linkage - Done
2006 STI ELH oil pan - Waiting on install
Killer B Ultimate Oil Pickup EJ25 - Waiting on install
Killer B Oil Baffle Windage Tray - Waiting on install



Before I even bought the car, I already bought the header, JDM tail lights, and Type-D black face meter. Drove the car home, immediately ordered the full Turn-in Concepts shifter kit because the shifter bushings were so blown out. Just bought some regular maintenance stuff for it, too. Waiting to hear back from my friendly neighborhood importer to buy JDM Bilsteins, a GT-B spoiler, Type-D headlights, 4pot/2pot bundle, Cusco strut bars, and a couple other things, but they should all be coming soon.

I'll be around as much as I can trying to dig through every thread I can. Feel free to drop me some advice or correct me if anything I say is idiotic as I'm sure it's bound to happen.

[Somac]

So, first order of business while it was a nice day today is to do basic maintenance (oil change, wipers, other fluids) and get these clear tails and header on.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/03/pEC95bB-1.jpg

Unfortunately, Michigan had other plans and as I was getting ready to go outside, it started snowing. So for now, I just get to see the black two-tone cars in my driveway.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/03/WqoovCi-1.jpg

Seeing this really makes me hate these headlights and try to get these Type-D headlights already.

[Somac]

Decided to work through the St. Paddy's day aftermath by working on the wagon today. Ended up making some good progress.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/03/kylm2RQ-1.jpg

Now installed:
Tsudo header
Tsudo downpipe
Whiteline adjustable sway bars
Whiteline end links
JDM outer tail lights

Only did the outer tail lights because I didn't have a deepwell 8mm socket to do the center garnish. Also saw that my JDM center garnish has a couple pieces of the red broken off of it at the top, so I'm debating buying a new one or trying to find a way to fix this one.

Also found out the muffler on there is a Bosal Brospeed muffler. Doesn't sound bad but it's definitely still too quiet even with the header and downpipe. Probably just going to make a custom catback in 2.25" with some Vibrant resonators and a more aggressive muffler.

Type-D black face meter should be here soon, as should the shifter bushing kit. Debating on whether I should do a re-pin of my harness or make an adapter harness to make the BFM work.

[rkrenicki]

Those one-bowl headlights look really strange on an Outback, but otherwise.. the car is looking really good!

[98legwag]

Those one-bowl headlights look really strange on an Outback

That they do. But I like it.

[Somac]

I hate chrome and they really bug me, along with the grille. The black bezel split headlights look 10x better to me.

The previous-to-the-previous owner did some hack work on the headlights regardless. To make the single bulb headlights work, he had to cut the stock headlight connectors and wired in a single bulb connector, but now the lights are messed up and the driver side high beam is on all the time, meaning I can't use the fog lights and I'm blinding people. So it's a bit of a priority to get these Type-D lights and rewire the headlights.

Ended up buying a Dakota SGI-5E to get the ball rolling on the BFM conversion. I'm planning on switching back and forth between shorter STI-sized tires and Outback tires, so it'll be nice to be able to do the kilometer-to-mile conversion and tire size conversion at the same time any time I want.

[Somac]

Always a good day when parts arrive! Albeit I'm a bit late on posting this.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/03/lBpCtck-1.jpg

Gonna be throwing the shifter bushings in this weekend and play with the Dakota piece in the meantime. Excited as can be to get this BFM in! Out of all of the mods I'm planning on doing, it's probably the one that has me most excited for some reason.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/03/uSyorYd-1.jpg

Also finished installing the JDM center garnish. The damage isn't as noticeable as I was expecting, which is nice. Still gonna see if I can get it repaired. Probably just going to end up polishing all the lights and calling it a day.

[Somac]

Got a little more done on the car yesterday. Pulled the shifter apart, installed a new Kartboy short shifter, Kartboy front and rear shifter bushings, and the Turn In Concepts updated shifter kit and pivot bushings.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/03/LuoyqUz-1.jpg

I didn't like how rusty the shifter 'arms' were, even though it was just surface rust, so I sanded them down and sprayed them with some gloss black rust inhibitor. Anything that comes off the car should go back on in better condition than before.

Also received some goodies I've been excited for!

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/03/sg20329-1.jpg

I love Whiteline's products and how high quality they look/feel. I'm a sucker for good packaging. Got the control arms, bump steer kit, and Com-C tophats for the Bilsteins when they arrive. Probably going to try to install the arms and bump steer kit next weekend.

Got my connectors from Mouser in as well. I'm going to try to see if I can cut someone's cluster harness from a parted out BE/BH so I can use OEM color wires to make the adapter harness more bearable, rather than just using the same color wire for everything.

Edit: Just met up with someone tonight that had a stripped down BH Outback for parts that let me chop some wiring off of it! Now I have all the wiring I need to start building the adapter harness for the BFM. Gonna be working on it at work tomorrow and hopefully I'll have it ready by the end of the day.

[Somac]

Ended up having a slow day at work today so I made the adapter harness for the BFM. Used the wiring from the chopped donor car so all of my wiring would still be correct color coded... until I looked closer and saw that the JDM wiring changes colors from USDM, too. Still wired it according to USDM colors.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/03/XpSARc0-1.jpg

Finished up around 1 AM. Got too antsy about trying out the cluster, so...

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/03/jH3PVBg-1.jpg

And voila!

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/03/eHfWZPW-1.jpg

Looks like 3/4 rings are burnt out. Haven't checked to make sure that all the idiot lights work, but so far everything is working fine. The harness worked out perfectly. Just gotta figure out how I'm going to route the cables now since the cluster can't actually be installed with the harness sitting behind it.

Thanks to rkrenicki for the extremely detailed BFM thread! Couldn't have done it without it.

Edit: Clearanced the plastic behind the cluster a bit and managed to get it to install. Running and driving around with this is nice! Kind of wish I would have left the purple dimmer wire disconnected because it is pretty dim at night, but I also like knowing I at least have partial dimmer functionality.

[peugoby]

I love how quickly you're moving on this project! Lots of nice pieces being put on. I am also a big fan of Whiteline's products.

[Somac]

I love how quickly you're moving on this project! Lots of nice pieces being put on. I am also a big fan of Whiteline's products.

Thank you! I'm not moving as quick as I was planning, unfortunately. Your wagon is a great example of a clean, functional, lowered look that I'm going for.

Probably going to be taking the car in for paint this week. Keeping the Outback bumpers and cladding and color matching it all to Obsidian Black Pearl. I really don't care for this Black Granite Pearl because it looks like a brown in the sunlight and I'm planning on having blue accents on the car with the Cusco and other pieces and want to have a pearl to match.

Found some Team Dynamics Pro Race 1.2s I'm hopefully going to pick up, too. 17x8 +40. Going to paint/powder coat them gold. Should clear Brembos...

[Muse]

Wow, blue halos on the bfm? I don't think I have ever seen that.

[Somac]

Wow, blue halos on the bfm? I don't think I have ever seen that.

Surprised me as well! Pulled all the bulbs and they're undoubtedly just some aftermarket LED replacement bulbs. Convenient though since I already planned on going with blue halos and the vehicle outline.

A bit of a trip as well... I pulled ALL of the bulb sockets, and noticed that there were about 10 of them that were just empty sockets. The rest of the halos, some of the indicator lights, etc. Just filled with empty twist lock sockets and no bulbs. Very strange, but explains why the halos and why a few other lights didn't work. I just have to wonder why someone would remove the bulbs and put the sockets back. Oh well, ordered new LEDs and sockets that should be here Friday.

[rkrenicki]

Wow, blue halos on the bfm? I don't think I have ever seen that.
amgarrety put blue LEDs in his BFM. They are pretty slick.

[rkrenicki]

I just have to wonder why someone would remove the bulbs and put the sockets back. Oh well, ordered new LEDs and sockets that should be here Friday.

At least they put them back. The sockets from the BFM are not very easy to come by, so if they were missing... you would have a tough time replacing them.

[amgarrety]

amgarrety put blue LEDs in his BFM. They are pretty slick.

Can confirm, are slick.

[Somac]

I love the blue in the halos. I was planning on doing it already, then started this cluster up for the first time and was surprised with the blue. Instantly reaffirmed my desire to do it. The contrasting blue halo, red needles, and white gauges are fantastic, imo.

Finally succumbed to my own internal pressure and ordered Type-D headlights. That'll be another fun wiring project. Going to pick up some wheels this weekend, too. Team Dynamics Pro Race 1.2 17x8 +40 wheels. Undecided on what color I want to go with them. I tried a quick edit of them in gold with the Outback still two-tone and it just didn't look right, imo. They look great in gold with a single color body, but just doesn't fit with the tan bottom half.

[Somac]

It took a couple weeks, but I finally got the picture I've been waiting for.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/03/YMiQMoM-1.jpg

Went on my lunch break at work today and drove to a pizza place. Car starts acting funny on the way there - bogging down a little bit, noticeable hesitation when accelerating, and windshield wipers moving very slowly. Hear a nice exhaust pop and pull into the parking lot. Turn the car off, go in the pizza place, hoping time to cool off will change the situation. Come back out and it won't start. No fuel pump, no cranking.

Get a ride back to work, then come back after work. Check the battery voltage with my volt meter and it dropped to 6V. Jump the car and it dies as soon as the jumper cables are taken off. Battery is only a year or so old Interstate battery so I assume it's the alternator. Replace the alternator in the parking lot, start it up, and the alt/PS belt starts smoking and squeaking. Got so hot I couldn't touch it. Gave up for the night since it was dark and raining and had it towed to my work so I can work on it tomorrow.

[Somac]

Fixed the issue with the alternator. Ended up swapping out the new alternator I just bought with yet another new one and the issue went away. Unfortunately my power steering pump immediately started squealing, so I picked up a pump as well. Waiting until Monday when the dealership opens to buy OEM double crush washers for the power steering lines.

On a good note, I got my new (to me) wheels today!

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/04/JyZCMuu-1.jpg

Team Dynamics Pro Race 1.2. 17x8 +40ET, 5x100. Originally gunmetal grey, the PO primed and painted two of them white and didn't finish the other two.

The tires I have are unfortunately too mismatched (8/32 on two of them and 5/32 on the other two) so I'm gonna try to source some 15+ WRX Dunlop Sport Maxx 235/45R17 takeoffs for cheap. Still deciding on what color I want to go with.

My quick dirty edit of all black with the gold TDs:
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/04/ZmwCt7k-1.jpg

Not really a huge fan for some reason and I thought I was going to really like it.

[Jacobpockros]

Clean build. Check mine out sometime.

[Somac]

Clean build. Check mine out sometime.

Thanks! I was just looking at yours and used some of your posts to help guide me in the right direction for suspension setups. Yours looks pretty nice, too! Makes me wish I could have found an actual Legacy instead of an Outback.

On that note, I found a Legacy interior collection for cheap today. Got black Legacy door switches/radio bezel/cruise panel pieces to get rid of the wood grain. Probably going to pull the steering column and trailing arm brackets from that car to aid in the "proper" lowering. Still need to find a manual shifter trim in black.

Considering making poor choices and ordering a JDM type-D front clip instead of just using the headlights. I keep seeing more and more full JDM front end cars and it makes me extremely jealous, but I still love the Outback front end.

[Muse]

The Lancaster front end was similar to the Outback, so you wouldn't have to lose that look and still have a D-type front end.

[Somac]

Coming across a Lancaster front end is nigh on impossible as a silly American, unfortunately. And I love the Outback front end but I love the sportiness of the type-D front even more.

Regardless, I'm gonna install the type-D headlights and go from there. If it still doesn't fit in my mind quite right after that, I'll probably end up ordering a front clip, rear bumper, and spoiler.

Mildly annoyed about the status of my headlights. Ordered them over a week ago and the tracking info still shows "Label created." Apparently their daily FedEx guy hasn't been picking up packages so they've just been letting packages sit in a corner for a week and haven't tried to ship them out. So now they'll be shipped out today.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/04/5UaRhzspng-1.jpg

[98legwag]

Where did you get the lights from?

[Somac]

Where did you get the lights from?

Purchased from Dallas JDM Motors on eBay. They have plenty of sets of 4th gen JDM lights on there as well.
http://www.ebay.com/sch/m.html?_odkw=&_ssn=dallasjdmmotors&_armrs=1&_osacat=0&_from=R40&_trksid=p2046732.m570.l1313.TR11.TRC2.A0.H0.Xlegacy.TRS1&_nkw=legacy&_sacat=0

[Somac]

Don't know why I did it, but I ordered JDM 4-pot front brakes and a JDM Legacy Momo steering wheel. I normally make fun of my Subaru friends that are obsessed with JDM OEM everything and how much money they spend just to make their car stock, but most of this stuff I can at least justify as actually being better, rather than just being able to say it's JDM.

I also replaced my power steering pump with a used unit I cleaned up and painted. Having a sandblaster at work is going to be the death of me. Every time I pull a part off, I see surface rust and end up sandblasting it and painting it, then finding something else and doing it and something else and doing it... so I blasted my power steering pump, PS pump/alternator bracket, PS pump/alternator belt shroud, radiator brackets, PS reservoir bracket, and battery hold down and painted them all either VHT Cast Aluminum engine enamel or gloss black engine enamel.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/04/K8siaey-1.jpg

For anyone curious, the VHT Cast Aluminum engine enamel is an *EXACT* match for our stock accessories. I taped off part of the power steering pump where the rubber hose attaches, then blasted, primed, painted, and cleared the rest of it. I couldn't even tell the difference between the area I taped off and the area I painted. I was blown away at how close they were.

Finally got a decent shot of the pearl in the Black Granite Pearl paint. I still don't like it just because it ends up looking brown, but I don't hate it in this picture.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/04/QkFckNi-1.jpg

And as a side note: For any of you looking for pin crimpers for wiring projects like making a BFM harness, I cannot recommend these IWISS pin crimpers enough. I did my first whole harness "by hand" with needle nose pliers crimping every pin and I hated every second of it. Of course, after I was finished with it, I looked up some pin crimpers and found these IWISS ones. They do the job flawlessly. I cannot say a single bad thing about them. They work, they work well, they feel good, they're easy to use, and they're cheap as can be at only $25 and useful for several different sizes.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/04/6kbf5zl-1.jpg

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00OMM4YUY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[Somac]

Made some updates to the parts list. Added in part numbers for the Whiteline stuff in case anyone else is looking to buy them and doesn't want to mistakenly order the wrong ones since years can sometimes be misleading.

As it turns out, I'm pretty much a big dummy and shouldn't be trusted with money. Just ordered a JDM type-D front clip, JDM rear 2-pot brakes to match the front, and an OEM Momo shift knob. Again with the whole "made fun of my 'JDM everything' friends and now I'm doing it" thing. Gonna try to sell the type-D headlights I just bought locally and scrap a couple spare junker cars I have to make myself feel better about how much money I just wasted to have a car that still only makes 120whp on a good day.

I am giddy with excitement though, so there's that. I'm just praying that I don't install the front clip and get in an accident the next day. The front clip I got has the optional front lip, so even among those in the US with the type-D front end, I'll still be even more uncommon. The front lip really transforms the front end, imo.

STILL can't manage to get this other importer to get me Bilsteins he has. The ONLY reason I'm trying to get them from this guy is because they have STI pink springs on them and they're the exact springs I want. To order them separately would cost more than I'm paying for the complete units and then I'd still have to deal with finding them, which I'm having a hell of a hard time trying to do.

[98legwag]

Did you get a type-d Outback or Legacy front end?

[Somac]

Ended up with a Legacy front end. Comparing the costs, getting an AUDM front bumper alone was pretty unreasonable so I just went with the whole Legacy front end. Going to try to do some body work on the Legacy bumper to get it to flow with the Outback fenders since I want to keep the width of them.

This is basically the front end I got, all assembled, but with a turbo hood and black. Same option front lip and option grill. Might try to get a different grill.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/04/377267d033603933e570646fbd7e44eb-1.jpg

On a different note, mounted my tires on my Team Dynamics wheels yesterday. Pretty excited to feel the difference in handling once the new wheels and suspension are on. I have until June to get everything situated before my track day with it. Bilsteins, new links, new ball joints and tie rods, bigger brakes, and wider wheels and tires should really transform the feel of the car.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/04/YbtdoYj-1.jpg

[rkrenicki]

One thing to note, you will need Legacy front fenders to get the D-type bumper to line up. I know you ordered a cut, which probably has fenders on it, but the JDM fenders will not fit properly on a North American car. :/

EDIT: Nevermind, I see that you mentioned that. I think it would need a good amount of metal massaging to get it all to line up nicely with Outback fenders..

[peugoby]

You work quickly! I can't wait to see the end result - should look amazing! Hopefully those Bilstein/STi spring combo come through. I too, have wasted way too much money to have a "Stock" looking car lol

[Somac]

I'll make it work one way or another. A buddy of mine is a great body guy with a nice shop and he's the one that is going to paint the car. He just finished up a custom widebody bugeye WRX, so I'll trust him to make this work, too.

I guess my complaining accomplishes something. Bilsteins with STI pink springs, aluminum control arms, and spoiler are officially on their way. I want to pull the trigger on some Cusco front and rear strut bars at the same time, but might hold off for a little bit to let the bank account heal.


JDM fenders will not fit properly on a North American car. :/

Out of curiosity, why won't the JDM fenders work? I figured worst case scenario I would just run them. Is it just another cladding won't line up issue?


You work quickly! I can't wait to see the end result - should look amazing! Hopefully those Bilstein/STi spring combo come through. I too, have wasted way too much money to have a "Stock" looking car lol

Thank you! They're coming through now from the looks of it. Should be shipped out tomorrow. I do love your Legacy, though. Something about a clean 2nd gen wagon is just great. I love the look of stock JDM but I also have to do my spin on it, even if it's minor.

[Muse]

Out of curiosity, why won't the JDM fenders work? I figured worst case scenario I would just run them. Is it just another cladding won't line up issue?
The profile of the fenders leave huge gaps by the doors. To put it another way, the shape, if you look down the fender, from the front is different profile from the US ones.

[Somac]

Hmm, that's disappointing. What do people normally do when trying to go to a JDM front end then? Just run USDM Legacy fenders?

[rkrenicki]

Hmm, that's disappointing. What do people normally do when trying to go to a JDM front end then? Just run USDM Legacy fenders?

Yes, they match up the closest.

[Somac]

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/04/G2iMsQh-1.jpg

Am I OEM yet?

JDM Legacy Momo wheel and OEM Subaru Momo knob came in at the same time today! Very happy with them. Both of them are near mint condition. Going to try to install them tonight if I can work up the motivation.

[peugoby]

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/04/G2iMsQh-1.jpg

Am I OEM yet?

JDM Legacy Momo wheel and OEM Subaru Momo knob came in at the same time today! Very happy with them. Both of them are near mint condition. Going to try to install them tonight if I can work up the motivation.

I rock the same shift knob and a similar MOMO wheel. Great combo - even better taste! You'll love the shift knob. I've had a bunch of different ones and these are by far my favorite.

[Somac]

My favorite as well. I needed a good 4 spoke wheel and after driving quite a few friends' WRXs with these wheels, I loved it. Same thing with the shift knob. The slight amount of aluminum is great, imo. Should pair nicely if I can find an STI shift bezel for cheap. I almost wanted to swap my now-black interior pieces for silver Baja pieces I found because I liked it so much, but it's would definitely be way too much silver.

[Somac]

Well, nothing crazy in the way of updates.

Got the Momo wheel and shifter installed. Pretty happy with both of them.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/04/v85fcpmr-1.jpg

Still have to pull the chip off my BFM and correct the mileage. Haven't played with my EEPROM programmer yet.

Front end finally showed up. There was a fun mess-up on these being shipped where they got loaded onto the wrong truck and sent to Pennsylvania instead, so it took an extra day to get to me.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/04/8Wh6JzA-1.jpg

(I already removed most of the packaging material for this pic, so don't be scared of poor packing)

Then spent part of the weekend working on a buddy's big turbo RWD blobeye WRX and getting his JDM Evo Recaros mounted in with custom brackets.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/04/APDHGax-1.jpg

The JDM front end has some really nice looking paint on it, but sadly does not match mine. This is how I find out that there is yet another black pearl paint code in Japan that looks like it has a gold pearl rather than red, blue, or brown like GBP, OBP, or JBP.

The Bilsteins, control arms, and spoiler should be showing up on Tuesday in one package and the JDM 4 pots should be showing up then as well.

There's a big car show on the 30th (MSU Annual Spring Car Show) so I'm going to see if I can get:

Front end
Bilsteins
Control arms
Whiteline arms
Spoiler
Brakes

All installed before then.

[FiveZigen]

Your building is coming alone nicely!
I have a BFM sitting at home that I might try and work into my 2nd gen. Yours looks sweet and I would love to have the same thing going on in mine.

How are you mounting up your 2 pots in the rear? Backing plates or adaptor brackets? I imported a set from Japan that should be here in a couple of weeks (on the slow boat) and went the bracket route just based on cost. Picked up a set from Godspeed in the UK here -----> http://www.godspeedbrakes.co.uk/impreza-rb5/70-rear-impreza-2-pot-fitting-kit.html

They were the least expensive set I could find and the quality seems quite good.

Ryan

[Somac]

Thank you!

I'll probably be going with 06/07 WRX backing plates. It'll give me a chance to do my rear wheel bearings at the same time as preventative maintenance.

I saw those cheap UK adapters but had trouble finding people for reviews on them. They're awfully cheap and look like a much more sensible option compared to Kartboy brackets, but not being able to find many install pics or people using them made me question them.

Maybe I'll use those after all.

[rkrenicki]

The WRX backing plates are quite different from the BE/BH plates. It would take some fairly significant modification to make them work.

The only bolt-in backing plates that would work for this are the plates from an S401 (which is a restricted part, and cannot be purchased without owning an S401), and the S401 clone plates that are no longer available for purchase new. You *MIGHT* have some luck finding some used plates on YAJ, but they are likely going to be pretty pricey.

[Somac]

Well color me an idiot. rkrenicki for the save again, lol. I was led to believe that the backing plates were identical minus the difference in the caliper mounting bolt spacing. I guess I'll have to go with the bracket then.

[Somac]

Having a rough day at work? Try having car parts delivered to your work and see just how much your mood changes!

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/04/UCVblwd-1.jpg

I now have all of my suspension and none of the time.

My list of "Waiting on install" is a bit intimidating for ~4 days' time, I'm starting to see.

[Muse]

I rock the same shift knob and a similar MOMO wheel. Great combo - even better taste! You'll love the shift knob. I've had a bunch of different ones and these are by far my favorite.

I do, too, except I have the A-C type sportshift wheel, with the black ring, not silver.

[Somac]

Found some STI door sills, a Cusco front strut bar, and a type-D headlight leveling switch so those are on the way.

Also ordered the Godspeed style rear 2 pot brackets. Looks like getting these brakes on is going to take longer than expected. Ordered Subaru rebuild kits for the 4/2 pots so they'll be nice and fresh, along with some new decals from Graphix By Tex. For $20, they'll send you the correct size decals for the correct calipers (flat vs raised text - mine are flat) along with a couple extras in case you mess up. Gonna glass blast the calipers and probably go with a nice bright gloss blue to match the Cusco and interior stuff. Going to be doing the intake manifold the same color a while down the road.

[Somac]

Well, progress is slow and/or halted for now. I've been so busy that I haven't been able to actually put anything on the car. I went to Germany back in January/February for a month for work to train. The person I trained with now got sent here for a few weeks and I'm basically her chaperone, so every day and night is spent showing her around the US, which means no car time or I'm too tired to do work to it.

I got my Megan camber arms to finish off the major suspension parts. Every part of the rear multi link setup will be new and aftermarket. I'm sure I'll end up with a Whiteline ALK and some other bushings, too, but those are all minor.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/05/kjk8MpK-1.jpg

Also got stock Outback lights with enough extra wiring to tie back into the major bundle of chassis wiring without looking out of place. Going to make an adapter for the JDM lights so I can go back and forth between them if I want to. I'll just be glad to get rid of the chrome Legacy lights and maybe fix my wiring issue with the one high beam stuck on and not being able to use the other high beam.

Glassblasted my 4/2 pots at work. Getting them ready for powdercoating or painting. Haven't decided which I'll actually do yet. Trying to tell myself powdercoating isn't worth it and to just paint them, but they'll probably get powdercoated.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/05/S9L33R0-1.jpg

Also realized I never posted pictures from putting the Team Dynamics wheels on. They're super funky at this height and they're still mismatched colors because I can't decide on which color to go with. I think it'll be a gloss gunmetal gray.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/05/D82yEFM-1.jpg

For now, that's unfortunately it. I truly wish I had more time to work on this. The little amount of fun I've been able to have on the road is riding my brother's Yamaha R1 he just picked up. Makes me want to get back on a bike more and more and just get an R6 or other 600cc crotch rocket instead of doing anything to the engine on this wagon.

[Somac]

For the first time since I've owned this car, I have fog lights! And more importantly, I'm no longer blinding people with a bunk high beam bulb stuck on.

The PO was a bit more of a hack than I was expecting. He wired the driver side headlight incorrectly which caused the high beam to be stuck on, but lucky for me, he was such a hack that all he did was twist the wires on the new connector together and electrical tape them, rather than actually soldering them or even using crimp connectors.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/05/0Fw0z5T-1.jpg

Also wired up an adapter for the JDM headlights just to try them out. They work, which is nice, but I hated the idea of connecting two 12 gauge wires to a single 16 gauge wire and powering the HIDs like that. I'm probably going to make a relay harness to directly power the HIDs from the battery with some heavier gauge wiring.

Got some more fun parts in the mail, too.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/05/utAMIfV-1.jpg

Killer B EJ25 Ultimate Oil Pickup and Windage Tray. Should pair nicely with the STI ELH oil pan I got. "Track ready" is starting to feel like something that's possible with this thing, but the time I have to get it done is dwindling.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/05/qgoonfB-1.jpg

And to finish it all off, the Godspeed rear brake adapters and the decals for the flat text 4/2 pots. Bought them from Graphix By Tex. He included tons of extras so I won't feel too bad about playing around with colors on the calipers.

And on that note, the wheels and calipers are getting sent off to powdercoat. Going with a (close to) Cusco blue on the calipers and a gunmetal gray for the wheels. Pretty excited to see the results.

[Jacobpockros]

Nice brakes. H&R makes the best coil springs for the Legacy/Outback Wagon in terms of handling. The pink springs will make the car sit higher than H&R and will only provide a small amount of handling over the OEM's since they are not progressive rate coils. If that's the type of ride you're looking for then that's a good thing, just wanted to let you know since I've reasearched/test nearly every lowering spring for a 00'-04'. I personally thought the H&R's were TOO stiff for daily driving and my car sat very uneven on them since they are made for a wagon. Also keep in mind that many JDM springs were designed on 2.0 liter models which weighed differently in the front than our USDM cars, so the front springs might be softer in relation to the rear. I noticed this with my Tein's but the front white line sways do a good job at negating this :thumbup:

I find Suspention tuning difficult on these cars.

[Somac]

Nice brakes. H&R makes the best coil springs for the Legacy/Outback Wagon in terms of handling. The pink springs will make the car sit higher than H&R and will only provide a small amount of handling over the OEM's since they are not progressive rate coils. If that's the type of ride you're looking for then that's a good thing, just wanted to let you know since I've reasearched/test nearly every lowering spring for a 00'-04'. I personally thought the H&R's were TOO stiff for daily driving and my car sat very uneven on them since they are made for a wagon. Also keep in mind that many JDM springs were designed on 2.0 liter models which weighed differently in the front than our USDM cars, so the front springs might be softer in relation to the rear. I noticed this with my Tein's but the front white line sways do a good job at negating this :thumbup:

I find Suspention tuning difficult on these cars.

I was considering the H&Rs originally (and grayed out on my list now) but being that this is still supposed to resemble a daily, I'm trying to keep some ride comfort. That's the only reason I haven't gone full idiot and Whiteline'd everything out. The STi pinks are stiff enough for a little better handling for the 1% of time I'm at a track while not being unreasonable for the other 99% of time I'm daily driving it.

[Jacobpockros]

I was considering the H&Rs originally (and grayed out on my list now) but being that this is still supposed to resemble a daily, I'm trying to keep some ride comfort. That's the only reason I haven't gone full idiot and Whiteline'd everything out. The STi pinks are stiff enough for a little better handling for the 1% of time I'm at a track while not being unreasonable for the other 99% of time I'm daily driving it.

That's good logic. The only other option really is to spend $1200 on BC coil overs with the custom spring-rate option. That's a lot of money to shell out on a BE/BH and then you'd still have to buy sway bars.

[Somac]

Finally got around to painting my calipers today. Super happy with how they turned out. Exact colors I was hoping for.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/05/b0379bI-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/05/c6XPAGc-1.jpg

Just have to apply the decals and clear coat them, then they'll be all set to rebuild.

Also ordered WRX aluminum pedals and an STI titanium key finally. The pedals should accent the rest of the aluminum pieces nicely.

My STI oil pan got here as well as my STI shifter bezel. Gave the bezel to a buddy that has an 06-07 WRX center console because the 06-07 ring just doesn't fit our trim well. Going to try again with an 04-05 STI bezel like I wanted originally.

[Somac]

Well, I guess enough time has passed since I've done anything with this car.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/05/bfMYU9R-1.jpg

Finally got the front end (mostly) on. Pretty happy with how it came out. Still needs some work and it'll all still have to be repainted, but I'm happy. Now I can focus on the suspension and brakes.

[Jacobpockros]

The color-matched front end looks great. Makes me want to do mine in white.

[CaleDeRoo]

Love the progress of your build since mine is basically at a stand still.

Also I can fully recommend the ebay header + vibrant resonator and 2.25" piping. Loved how mine sounded, and there was no drone while cruising. (I did have the factory cats though)

https://youtu.be/h6fizL1NFDI

[Somac]

Thank you both!

That exhaust sounds pretty good. Sounds like it's on par with what I want from this. Right now it's hilariously loud with the midpipe broken and bypassing the muffler.

I'm torn right now between a 2.25" and 2.5" midpipe. The header outlet is 2.25" but the downpipe outlet is 2.5". I could do 2.5" all the way back for essentially no gains whatsoever and possibly some lost low end, but it'll be even size piping all the way through. Or end up stepping down from the downpipe outlet to 2.25" all the way back and be a bit mismatched. Either way, it'll be a Vibrant Ultra Quiet resonator and maybe a Vibrant muffler or XForce Varex.

In other news, I installed the Bilsteins today with the Whiteline Com-C top hats.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/05/JMRmQ8e-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/05/mX6eADS-1.jpg

Kind of disappointed with the drop. I thought going from Outback struts and springs to Legacy Bilsteins with STI springs would have given me a much more dramatic drop, but it only measured out to be about an inch and a half. I was hoping for at least a few inches.

Still have to install the Whiteline rear control arms and Megan camber arms. Kinda forgot about my Legacy aluminum front control arms, too. Those are stripped and just sitting and waiting for paint.

[98legwag]

Did you change out the rear bump stops to Legacy ones?

[Somac]

Not yet. I was planning to when I did the full Legacy conversion. I picked up a Legacy steering column and drop bolts and few other things but still have to finish pulling the rest of the stuff off of a junkyard car. I honestly couldn't figure out how to remove the bump stops from the car while I was at a junkyard.

I guess I was just expecting the struts themselves to be a big portion of the drop, even though there's still a bit to go once the spacers are removed. I'm kind of dreading doing the Legacy conversion. It definitely won't be done before the track day.

Also, don't know why, but decided to cancel going with the 2.5" and I'm just gonna do 2.25" all the way back. This car isn't getting swapped and won't see any engine-related mods so there's no point going with the 2.5". I'd rather this car be seen than heard. The midpipe will be done next Tuesday. Single Vibrant Ultra Quiet 2.25" resonator and that's it.

[Jacobpockros]

My legacy was never offered with rear bump stops. Might just be a Jdm/European thing

[rkrenicki]

My legacy was never offered with rear bump stops. Might just be a Jdm/European thing

All BE/BH/BTs have rear bump stops regardless of region. They are next to the rear shock, the rubber cone to the right in this picture. Your car does (did?) have them.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/05/IMG_20130930_162331_zps8af4315c-1.jpg

As for removal.. they are tricky. They have a very large hex around their base for a special socket, but I personally used a giant set of slipjoint pliers to take them off. It is easier if the rear shock assembly is not in the way.

As for the drop.. it should have dropped far more than 1.5" from full outback height. At least 2" if not 2.5".. perhaps it has not settled down yet?

[Somac]

Oh wow I'm dumb. I never even considered that to take them off. I assumed that there was either a stud that would go through the other side and into the floor, or there was a stud that came through the floor and into the bump stop that you'd have to pop the rubber off or something to get to. I tore the interior of a junkyard car apart and was getting ready to cut into the floor just to try to find the stud. Thank you!

And yes, every Legacy definitely has them. Virtually every car on the road in general has bump stops of some kind. If yours doesn't have them, someone must have removed them, but they 100% came with them. I'd check again.

I just measured my fender to ground height again. It looks like they did settle a bit. On KYB Excel-G struts made for an Outback (confirmed with part number they were Outback struts), I was at ~28.75" fender to ground. With the Bilsteins and STI pink springs, I'm now at ~26.5" fender to ground. Before when I measured shortly after install, it was around 27.25" fender to ground.

[rkrenicki]

Yea, once they get started, they are basically just a big rubber-headed bolt. Assuming that the threads are not rusty, as soon as you break them loose they will unscrew by hand quite easily.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2014/08/attachmentphpattachmentid87518d127916174-1.jpg

[Jacobpockros]

All BE/BH/BTs have rear bump stops regardless of region. They are next to the rear shock, the rubber cone to the right in this picture. Your car does (did?) have them.
https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/05/IMG_20130930_162331_zps8af4315c-1.jpg

Forgot about those. I was thinking about the shock-mounted type for some reason.

[Somac]

It's been a while since I've posted anything here, mainly since I've been so panicked and busy with getting the car prepped, so I guess it's time for updates galore.

1. I got my exhaust fixed finally. The midpipe rusted out and broke right before the flange where the midpipe meets the axleback, so I had a new midpipe made out of 2.25" piping with a single Vibrant Ultra Quiet resonator. The car is, once again, ultra quiet. I'm probably going to take off the Bosal Brospeed axleback and have a new section made up with a different muffler that's just a little bit more aggressive and in 2.25". Might end up going with an XForce Varex so I can be quiet for my neighbors and high flow when I want it.

2. I borrowed some JDM V9 STI seats from my buddy so I could drive the car and not slide around in my seat. They're amazing and I'm buying a set for myself soon.

3. After essentially realizing that the STI pink springs I got were for a sedan even though they were on wagon struts, I ended up swapping out the rear springs for stock Outback springs and the car sits level enough now.

4. I got my STI door sills, Cusco strut bar, type D headlight leveling switch, and power folding mirror switch. Got the STI door sills and Cusco bar installed. I have to figure out which switch I want to remove from my 3-switch panel or end up with an extra switch panel like what I think amgarrety has underneath the radio. I think I'll take out the heated wiper switch at the same time as the heated mirror switch and try to see if I can work both of those to come on with the rear defroster since those will all be used at the same time anyways. That'll give me room to use the headlight leveling switch and power folding mirrors once I order the actual mirrors.

5. I got the whole Whiteline rear control arm kit and Megan camber arms installed. My old toe bolts were heeaaavvilllyyy seized up and I ended up having to use my torch to cut the old arms apart to get the bolts out. I replaced a lot of the bolts holding the arms with new dealer replacements since a lot of them were pretty rusty, too. I got an alignment at the track and dialed in around -1.5* of camber in the front, -2.0* in the rear, some mild toe out in the front and toe in in the rear, and as much caster as possible.

6. I tracked the wagon! Went out to Gingerman Raceway for Gridlife Music and Motorsports Festival. This is my fourth time going and it was my favorite time yet. Tons of amazing time attack and drift cars and even some sweet HPDE and show cars. Got to see some of my favorite EDM artists at night so that was awesome. Definitely recommend the event to anyone even remotely interested.

I drove for the weekend and I'm so happy with how the car did. The instructor I was with has a supercharged TrackMod-classed E46 M3 and kept saying the whole time how impressed he was with how much grip the car had and how he wishes his E46 had that much grip coming out of corners and how it felt so good compared to other Subarus he's driven/instructed, even with the amount of weight that's getting thrown around. I had him drive it for a session afterwards and he really thrashed it and showed me how much the car could take. I spun the car on a hard turn that I carried too much speed through and almost lost it a couple more times but corrected and saved it. I stayed on a mildly modified Miata's ass for most of a session and depressingly, he took me in the straights.

Between sessions, I tried swapping out my stock brakes for the 4/2 pots and I ended up breaking off a bleeder screw in one of the 4 pots after I installed all the calipers, so I had to go back to stock and just flushed the fluid. All the pads and rotors were still looking great. Managed to get essentially 2 full hours of track time in with 6 20-minute sessions. Even when hot lapping the car running two sessions back to back with no cool down time, the car still responded great. The tires got greased up pretty quickly but that was to be expected out of some junky stock tires. I'm still able to daily drive on those same brakes and tires.

The car packed half of an auto shop's worth of tools, a spare set of wheels and tires, all of my camping gear, tent, sleeping bag, clothes for the weekend, and replacement parts and fluids for everything. Then I was able to track it, thrash it, load it all back up, and drive it home. I literally could not have asked for more.

Now that I'm back home, I have more work to do. I bought some H&R springs that I'm going to install since these STI springs didn't work out on my wagon. I still have to install the Killer B oil pickup and baffle with the STI pan. The 4/2 pots will have to be repaired now and I'm thinking of just replacing all of the pistons while I'm at it since a lot of them were corroded or damaged. I'm going to order some JDM V8 STI seats since they're a good compromise between fit and looks (blue headrest that looks better imo and tight without being too tight for some of my bigger passengers like the V7s might be). Still have to install the spoiler and get the car painted, get rid of the subframe spacers, install the Legacy front LCAs, Whiteline ball joints and tie rods, and some more stuff.

Cosmetically, I'm just looking for random dress up pieces at this point. I kinda want a Zero/Sports blue oil cap or a Greddy one, a Zero/Sports 1.3bar blue radiator cap, a Zero/Sports Cool Action II TMIC splitter, and Zero/Sports radiator cooling plate. I hate that I want all of this useless stuff that won't improve the car in any way, but I'm just a sucker for it.

[Somac]

I realized I haven't really taken a picture of the car in a while, so I guess here's a couple in all of its dirty, mismatched paint, mismatched suspension goodness:

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/06/pjNS21K-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/06/31bqOrQ-1.jpg

And a short and somewhat hilarious video of it getting tossed around.

https://goo.gl/photos/b36LobpSeg2oxvcN7

The funniest thing in my mind is the sound difference between my car and the following 350Z and E46. I almost feel like I shouldn't have fixed my exhaust before the event now, haha.

Next up mod-wise:

Install H&R springs all around.
Install Whiteline ball joints, tie rods, and JDM aluminum FLCAs.
Replace sway bar bushings.

Other than that, the car is going to be on hold for a little while since I'm buying a bike to finish riding out through the summer and turn into a winter project.

[Somac]

I've had just about no motivation to get stuff done on this car so I haven't really tried to do anything big.

I decided to finally sort out my fog lights. I never wired in the JDM lights because I never seriously use fog lights at all. I ordered up some Hella Optilux XY fog light bulbs for that ricey JDM yellow look. The fogs are effectively useless anyways so I figure it's no real loss. Got some 9006 extension harnesses and made some USDM -> JDM fog light plug and play adapters so I can still go back to the USDM lights.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/07/9EdUrIK-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/07/bNAFtCY-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/07/lcmI4Qm-1.jpg

The bulbs are a straight gold in person but they show up pretty amber in pictures. Pretty close to the color I wanted.

[Somac]

Just as another small update of things I forgot to add:

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/07/ar7SusV-1.jpg

I got a type D B4 honeycomb grille to replace my version B option grille. I like the option grille, but it's a little too wild for me and I like the honeycomb a lot. Much cleaner, imo. I'll still hold onto both grilles in case I ever want to swap back.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/07/exPQZIj-1.jpg

I also managed to find a brand new Subaru dual power socket for a Legacy. Part number H6710AC000. Looks like it's for a BD/BG but people have made it work in a BE/BH. Gonna see if I can't make it work, too. I have no use for the ash tray so this'll be a nice addition, even though I don't really have use for the extra ports, either. I might make them run always hot so I can charge my phone with the car all the way off.

Also very sad, but I gave the JDM STI seats back to my buddy now that I'm done driving the car hard. I suddenly hate driving this car again. It's amazing how much the seats change the feel of the car. These stock leathers are just awful. Yet another item that'll have to be put on hold though. I might try to see (far down the road) if I can just pick up some cheap poor condition JDM V8/V9 seats and have them reupholstered in black like the Spec-C seats instead.



EDIT: Yep, the dual power socket definitely won't fit unless I want to chop up my radio bezel and even then I still have to mount it somehow. Looks like it'll go up for sale here.

[Somac]

Well, nothing has really happened with the wagon at all. It's been reliable, which is nice, and I haven't been able to say that about many cars I've messed with.

Ended up buying a bike (and sold it and bought another) so I've been riding that out through the summer.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/09/EzCkF57-1.jpg

Kept going back and forth on what color I want to do the car in when I finally get it painted. The decision was between matching the bumper to the rest of the two tone or going all Obsidian Black Pearl. I think I decided on all OBP, as much as I like the two-tone. The black is just so much more aggressive and sleek.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/09/fV0uRX8-1.jpg

Also just ordered a set of Morimoto MH1 7.0s so I'll finally be retrofitting the spare set of type D JDM lights I have to hopefully have decent light output again. The MH1s should fit in the D2R spot decently well but they might look a little out of place. Oh well. Going by this pic, it shouldn't be too bad:

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/09/gallery_66_106_99165-1.jpg

That's unfortunately it for now. The bike will be getting the attention for the rest of the season, then I'll go back to working on the car. My buddy just decided to swap a JDM EJ205 into his SF9 Forester so I'll be wiring that for him, which will be good practice for me to swap my car. I was considering just doing an EZ30D swap, but the tiny power increase just isn't worth it for the time involved, so it'll likely be an EJ205 or EJ255 if I actually do it.

Only other thing I'm happy about is that I'm picking up said buddy's Xforce Varex muffler from him off of his WRX. I've wanted one for a while but just didn't want to spend $300 on a muffler. This'll give me the perfect compromise of loudness when I want it but quiet for pulling into my neighborhood.

[Somac]

Well, nothing much has changed. Picked up some Evo 8 Recaros in rough condition. Love the feel of them.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/09/oKg3Yhw-1.jpg

Also finally mounted my JDM spoiler today. Got tired of seeing this bland-ass rear end and just drilled some holes and threw it on. I've been psyching myself out of it for so long and not wanting to damage the hatch and I finally said screw it. It's dark so no pictures yet.

[peugoby]

Those Recaro's are so comfortable. Your Outback is looking good!

[Somac]

Thanks! I love them.

Got a pic of the JDM spoiler on in the light, not that a picture of mine was really needed to see what it looks like.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/10/id5vLSN-1.jpg

Organized a group buy for the JDM Defi triple gauge dash pod from a Russian replica maker, so this'll be adorning my dash in mirrored form soon, along with a bunch of black interior plastics to replace the gray USDM ones. I guess my car will be RUDM now?

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/10/jcDdDH8png-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/10/CFUuI0Jpng-1.jpg

[Somac]

Well, did a stupid thing and bought more stuff instead of parting the car out like I should at this point.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/10/rsQKjU5png-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/10/kNO2hFnpng-1.jpg

Armrest extension, leather armrest lid, S401 airbag, Zerosports cooling plate, and an Arc carbon fiber scoop extension.

I'm pretty excited for the armrest extension. Gonna have to make a bracket to make it work with my center console, but I hate how low the stock center console is so this should be a good improvement.

[rkrenicki]

Why should you be parting it out? Did I miss something?

[Somac]

Nah, I just keep looking at my own thread title and realizing how silly it is for me to put so much money into a DD, haha. I may be moving next year and can't take the car so I may have a return-to-stock partout and sell the car then, though.

[Somac]

Got some more parts in the mail so I got up and did something productive, I guess.

Installed my Zerosports radiator shroud along with some Prova Eifel carbon fiber hood struts in the engine bay, along with my Arc carbon fiber scoop extension.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/10/PSalIBn-1.jpg

The hood struts are such a nice convenience upgrade over the hood prop rod.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/10/TWoePKB-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/10/ct5QCL4-1.jpg

Also finally bought a ring for my girlfriend, so there goes my EJ208 swap money. 😅

[Somac]

Went to a couple junkyards today and had a decent score for what I was after.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/11/2k9JSD4-1.jpg

I got:
a whole H6 intake, minus the snorkel (grrrr)
Auto HVAC unit
McIntosh head unit
Cubby with VDC off switch
Cubby with door
McIntosh sub cover (My current one says Subaru)
Outback/GT headlight caps so I can make more type D headlight adapters
Cluster harnesses so I can make more type D BFM adapters

Got the H6 intake just to have something I know will work in this chassis instead of trying to fit a WRX/STI one if I eventually do a swap.

Also have a few parts coming in from Japan that I'm pretty excited about. We'll see how it goes in a few weeks when they finally all get settled.

Gonna make up a couple BFM adapter harnesses today since people have asked for them so at least that'll keep me busy through the weekend.

[Sub-Goon]

Nice work on this thing!

[*thomas*]

Well done! This is turning out to be a very cool looking car. Nice upgrades!

[rkrenicki]

Did you get the servos and sensors from the heater box from that H6 car? Also, if you want to use that McIntosh radio, did you grab the amp from under the passenger seat as well as the umbilical cable between them?

[Somac]

Thank you all!


Did you get the servos and sensors from the heater box from that H6 car? Also, if you want to use that McIntosh radio, did you grab the amp from under the passenger seat as well as the umbilical cable between them?

Just starting off grabbing stuff. Going to be pulling the whole dash harness from that car along with the amp and other things and I'll be doing the whole auto HVAC swap. Realistically I'm not going to use the McIntosh parts, though. I already have the factory rear sub without having to deal with the McIntosh integration and I already have an aftermarket head unit. This was more of just a grab because I can kind of thing.

[Sub-Goon]

Thank you all!



Just starting off grabbing stuff. Going to be pulling the whole dash harness from that car along with the amp and other things and I'll be doing the whole auto HVAC swap. Realistically I'm not going to use the McIntosh parts, though. I already have the factory rear sub without having to deal with the McIntosh integration and I already have an aftermarket head unit. This was more of just a grab because I can kind of thing.

The factory Subwoofer you speak of... does it sit on the right side of the cargo compartment on a BH, behind a 6x9 grill? I noticed a few at the wreckers. I also noticed on the parcel deck of my BE, that there is a single 6x9 mounting on the left side. I wondered why there was just 1 and now I think that is for the factory Sub! Im going to look in the morning and see if its prewired! If so, my next trip to the wreckers, I will snag one!

[rkrenicki]

The factory Subwoofer you speak of... does it sit on the right side of the cargo compartment on a BH, behind a 6x9 grill? I noticed a few at the wreckers. I also noticed on the parcel deck of my BE, that there is a single 6x9 mounting on the left side. I wondered why there was just 1 and now I think that is for the factory Sub! Im going to look in the morning and see if its prewired! If so, my next trip to the wreckers, I will snag one!

It should only be wired if you have a GT, Outback Limited, or H6, all of which would also have the speaker itself. That may or may not be true for the 2000 model year, however.. 2000 was an oddball when it came to a lot of things.

[Somac]

The factory Subwoofer you speak of... does it sit on the right side of the cargo compartment on a BH, behind a 6x9 grill? I noticed a few at the wreckers. I also noticed on the parcel deck of my BE, that there is a single 6x9 mounting on the left side. I wondered why there was just 1 and now I think that is for the factory Sub! Im going to look in the morning and see if its prewired! If so, my next trip to the wreckers, I will snag one!

Yep, that's the spot! The BH gets one in the rear right compartment whereas the BE gets one in the rear left deck.

[Sub-Goon]

It should only be wired if you have a GT, Outback Limited, or H6, all of which would also have the speaker itself. That may or may not be true for the 2000 model year, however.. 2000 was an oddball when it came to a lot of things.

Yep, that's the spot! The BH gets one in the rear right compartment whereas the BE gets one in the rear left deck.

Well, mine is a 2000 Outback Limited, but no wiring for it. I'll keep the area in mind when I get around to doing a better stereo, in the future.

[Huffer]

Great build! "When" you plan to part out (I have no idea why you would), please let me take first crack at some of your parts. I would love to add them to my Tank.

[Somac]

Made some small changes.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/11/xdnTKdV-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/11/zhJHNH4-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/11/jfp4SXF-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/11/IiR4Yva-1.jpg

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/11/iBTqURc-1.jpg

STI option ST8500066050 cluster. S401 airbag. E'sam LED mirror covers on JDM power folding mirrors.

Excited for some more parts to show up, too.

My motor doesn't sound like it's going to be holding on for too much longer so I should probably start saving for a swap.

[Somac]

Finally got the windows tinted. 50% front windshield, 35% front windows, 20% everywhere else. Just about the perfect amount. Kind of wish I went 35% on the windshield but it's still great for now.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/12/cHPsEhn-1.jpg

Then I picked up some more goodies after.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2017/12/7MLepBS-1.jpg

I forgot just how wide USDM STI seats are. I feel like I'm just sliding around in them compared to my Recaros.

[Somac]

Well, it's been a while since I've posted updates.

I kind of realized how much money it would take to build the car how I wanted it. I watched other similar cars sell for virtually nothing compare to what was invested and I realized the smart move was to move on. I parted the car out of all aftermarket stuff and just sold the car almost completely stock today. I left the Bilsteins, Whiteline stuff, and Kartboy short throw on and that's it. New owner was pretty happy with it and requested the suspension stayed on and wanted the front end, too, but couldn't afford it for now. Hopefully he'll pick it all up at a later time.

For now, all of my parts are up for sale and they'll be posted in the for sale section. I've already sold some of it off but most of it is still here.

I'm planning on getting back into another Outback for a daily again but this time I'll have a more fun car as my weekend warrior and probably an auto H6 BP Outback instead. I'll be flying out to get my new fun car within a few days.

Thanks for the help to everyone here! This is legitimately one of the best forums I've ever been on as far as community/available information/diving in the deep end. I'll still be around for a while!

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2018/02/uyZNCS9-1.jpg