wtdash

If you're still working on this: That VIN is for '97. Also, if it has the screw-type valve adjusters (vs. HLA) it'll be the interference version. The valves are likely bent - even if there was no noise. I read that you're dependent on your mechanic friend - hopefully they know (or know of someone that does) about Subarus and the engine interchange options. Note: If s/he doesn't know how to put a Timing belt on a Subaru -please get another mechanic friend. The 'good' news is any '95-'98 EJ22/2.2 engine will work ('95 needs a dual-port exhaust header). Put on a new Aisin Timing belt kit and run it for another 100K. Also, that VIN shows it's an OB wagon w/the 5-speed. If you have to 'move on' to another car, your car is popular (and it's rare) w/the Subaru crowd - I don't know FL's Subaru scene - but if it's otherwise in good condition in/outside, it's likely worth as much with running engine as a non-running engine.

Just a heads' up - if you ddin't already know: The '90-'91 harness has round plugs vs. '92-'94 square where they plug in by the battery. Also the cam/crank sensors don't have plugs at the sensor like the '95+ models. IIRC, they're hard wired into the harness. Can you retrofit the newer style? Been wondering that myself.

Any of the '00-'04 seats will bolt up - nothing newer - from a used/salvage/auto parts yard. All OB driver seats were electric/powered. Those w/the cold weather package were heated. - Cars101.com - for reference. The GT and L models will also fit, but may not be powered, nor heated. You could likely - although it may be a lot of work - swap the cloth seat covers to yours -but no experience. Something to note: Your VDC (and LImited) model may have side airbags; non-VDC and/or non-Limited may not. If you swap seats and don't have a plug, you'll likely get an 'airbag' warning light. That may be tough to find - non-leather WITH airbags??? Can't help with part #'s but there are numerous online Subaru parts dealers that might - but also may be discontinued. Also, there was an OB sedan (VDC?). Front seats should swap, too.

Is replacing the turn signal switch indicated (pun intended), too? Just had a similar issue - but on a Ford - resolved w/the switch.

^...I just saw this as my USMB notifcations haven't worked - in years. But not much help here...if you have 'high oil content' the CC isn't going to neutralize that, IMHO, and you may end up fouling a replacement O2 sensor.

Be prepared for the stink of exhaust. My '98 runs no cats (turbocharged>>exhaust) and can't drive around w/the windows down b4 it gets too much. Thankfully the AC works.

Yeah...used knuckle FTW, in my experience. And Subaru used the same one on many vehicles, esp. the front. There was change around '02 in how the ABS sensor was mounted (and the tone ring), and they're not easily interchangeable.

Congrats! - I'd read up on other sites about other gotchas for the '05-'09s. I know the rear (?) suspension bushings wear out, the headlight bulbs like to burn out quickly, but nothing that would likely strand you...of course, AK is a big state. Hopefully they changed all the idlers/pulleys and water pump w/the belt. If not, I'd add that to your list. That's still an interference engine.

AFAIK, that year still used the open loop/closed loop tuning in the ECU. Which means it's running off 'set values' 'til it warms up, then starts reading the sensors - such as O2. I don't want to be the one that suggests an O2 sensor - and it not fix the issue. If you do, it should be OEM or Denso quality. Also, the CTS/temp sensor can cause issues like you described. Ideally you'd have an OBD2 reader/scanner - even the low-end $ ones can read 'live data' for O2 voltage and CTS temps.

Hi Larry, 99% sure they'll fit the front; 'might' work on the rear - or hit the bottom of the strut perch. Depends on the wheel's offset, too.

Hi, Not my area of knowledge, but if you look up the parts on a Subaru site like parts.subaru.com, you can cross-reference part #. or like Rockauto. And Why are your swapping parts, rusty? Good luck

Can't help w/the interior other than same years between Forester and Impreza may swap. Seats: For the front, your '02 has the same seat mounting points as all 1990-2004 Legacy, 1992-2007 Impreza and 1998-2008 Foresters. Some of the seats sit higher/lower than other models, but they bolt in. Rear seats are not my forte. Unlikely the Crosstrek seats will bolt up as is. If you're creative and can weld they could likely be made to fit, but the connectors for airbags, seat heaters, power seats, seatbelts may not interchange.

Please post a pic of the 'original paperwork' (block out any personal info). Also a pic of the VIN/chassis tag by the USA/Canada driver's side (LEFT) front strut tower. Here:

Legacy AT trans (4EAT) is most likely NOT compatible. The WRX Auto trans had a 'weird' gear ratio and likely had different electronics so the TCU/TCM wouldn't 'read' the other trans correctly. But according to online Subie parts sites the torque converter/TC MIGHT work, and double-check your Flex Plate will bolt-up before installing. Make Sure you know how to 'seat' the TC as it's a tricky part to install.

Good job...I would have sworn the '96 was interference (1st year of the single-port exhaust heads), but maybe '97+ had the interference pistons w/its higher CR.