1996 Legacy L Manual Swap and A Little More

[Santous]

Hey guys, I have a 1996 Legacy L and am interested in improving the car seeing as I will be having it throughout my next two high school years. At the end of that time I'm going to purchase a second car, but for now I want to make this one nice. It currently has 102,000 miles on it and ever mechanic we've taken to says that the engine and suspension are both in perfect condition. (sorry I have to keep regurgitating this part in ever post, I just want everyone to have a background on my car)

I want to do a manual swap and I'm trying to figure out how much that will cost, where I can get the tranny, and wether it should be 5 spd, 6 spd, or something else. Anything that isn't automatic pretty much. Also, I need to know what i need to increase the longevity of my engine. All the mechanics we've taken it to say it's in good condition, but I just want to make sure that everything will be reliable. Finally, I need to know what kind of paint you have to use to paint the engine and engine bay cause I want to paint it, as well as the rest of the car. Thanks to anyone who helps.

[jey]

All Legacy/Impreza/Forester transmissions will bolt right up. If it's an AWD car you will need the rear diff with the same ratio as the transmission. You will also need a driveshaft - different length from the automatic (except for the 6-speed).

For details do a search, this has been covered quite a bit I think.

Your EJ22 will run forever, just take care of it and perform all the recommended service.

[Plays_with_Toys]

My 96 with the EJ22 is about to turn 170k miles young and is running like a champ. As was said, you'll need the transmission, clutch, the reservoir (unless you go with cable style clutch), and matching rear diff. The manuals also have a longer drive line I think.