legacycentral bbs

I've got a 1990 Legacy thats running pretty strong despite the 189k on it. I'd like to convert it to either 4wd or AWD. She has an automatic transmission.

First of all I'd like to know if its a possibility or if I've got my head stuck in the clouds. Could I find the right legacy at a junk yard and pull most of the necessary parts? I guess the big thing is whether or not I need a different transmission. Which leads into yet another question...

The transmission seems to slip badly when the car is just started up. About 5 seconds after the engine is spinning the transmission engages. I recently experienced a similar problem after being at a stoplight for a couple minutes it hesitated to engage for a few seconds of moderate to low throttle.

Welcome to the BBS.

To convert to AWD, you will need a new transmission. You'll also need the AWD parts for the rear of the car. This parts list will give you an idea of what you will need to do the conversion.

http://www.surrealmirage.com/subaru/swap/parts.html

If you want to tackle this, I'd suggest getting a donor car. It's going to be much easier than trying to grab a part here and there.

Regarding your transmission slipping, if you wait a minute or so and let the car warm up a bit, does the transmission still slip? If it still slips, try putting the gear selector in D with your foot on the brake for a few seconds, and then try and take off.

There is a check valve that keeps fluid from draining out of the torque converter when it sits. It sounds like it has failed, and is allowing the fluid to drain out. This is somewhat common. However, if it is the check valve you shouldn't be experiencing this symptom with the engine running.

Thanks for the info Josh. Looks like I might have a good winter project ahead of me... Hopefully I can get it done before the snow is all gone.

You're welcome. Let us know how it's going if you decide to tackle the project.