2006 aotomatic Forester transfer clutch pack?

[swamphunter]

Just recently got a 2006 Forester (already have a 1998 and a 2002 - love them).  I believe this one was towed on its rear wheels.  When turning, it has the grunt and groan that is typical of a "center differential" (I know that's the manuals) noise.  While there seems to be all kinds of info out there on manuals, I'm having a hard time finding anything on the automatics.  Any information is greatly appreciated  Dennis

[nipper]

Tons of information on automatics, search "Torque Bind"

[swamphunter]

Thank you (you seem to be one of the well informed by the number of responses you have given).  A google search led me back to my owners manual and the "incase of emergency" section.  A spare fuse has things under control until I can better asses the real problem..My problem seems to be in becoming more familiar with the correct terminology.  For the most part, our Subies have been very dependable other than a few maintenance items.  The AWD and particular the 2006 are new territory for me.  I have the full factory FSM for the '98 ,and a Chiltons for the '02.  The '06, I'll have to learn about.   Dennis 

[nipper]

Try searching here, there is so much information you  may not be able t search

 

Let me start you off with a basic lesson http://www.autozine.org/technical_school/traction/tech_traction_4wd_2.htm

 

Basically the clutch pack is cooked form 2 wheel towing.  Subaru  uses a viscous coupling in the center. 

Edited April 18, 2016 by nipper

[swamphunter]

Yeah, that was my fear.  I have a background in Heavy and specialized equipment, so I am somewhat familiar with various kinds of drives, I just needed to be "steered in the right direction" as far as Subarus were concerned.  I started this with a search of "Subaru towed on 2 wheels", which led to "center differential" (manual) and a little about the viscous coupling (which some seemed to think was for the manuals).  Of course there are also a lot of B.S. specialists out there too.  I am fairly involved with the "Planetisuzoo" forum, but the Subies I am still learning.  Trying to decide now if I should 1. Just replace the whole main transaxle with a used one, 2. try a used coupling (not sure of years or compatibility), or 3. Get parts and rebuild this one.  Dennis

FWIW, I picked this Forester up for 1500.00 from a guy (shiester) who I found out bought it for junk (from the original owner).  For the most part, the car is in good shape. 

[nipper]

To be honest when my unit went bad I had the dealer rebuild it to get it right. Transmission shops are shady at best. Its not hard to rebuild yourself I just dont have a garage, nor at the time a paved driveway. 

 

If the tranny works, I would just replace the unit. Since it sort of hangs on the tail of the tranny, it can always be used on another tranny. 

[CNY_Dave]

Our 2005 forester has had a 'slightly tight' clutch pack for at least 50,000 miles, has never gotten worse.

It groans a bit in a parking lot, doesn't shudder.

[nipper]

A little groaning is normal in a Subaru as the computer figures things out. The only time I had one not do this it was a manual

[swamphunter]

This one was grunting pretty badly.  I installed the fuse and it is smooth as silk now, but of course, there is no AWD.  It will be at least a couple of weeks before I get to it.  Only tranny "shop" I trust is a former GM tranny guy who does side work.  He is pretty good with all kinds, but the jobs always take a few weeks.  Most shops around here, the techs should be wearing striped uniforms with numbers on them.   Dennis

[Caboobaroo]

This is common in the second Gen Foresters. I will do a drain and fill service with new filter and clear the transmission computer memory. It helps for awhile but will eventually come back.