Newb with a few questions. 98 Impreza Outback

[bishop087]

Hi all. I'm a newbie to this board and have just purchased a 98 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 2.2 and have a few questions:

 

1-Is this engine prone to the oil seal leaks that I have heard about? If so, is there anything I can do to prevent this?

 

2-I have read somewhere else in this board that I shouldn’t use synthetic oil, is this really so?

 

3-Anybody know where I can get parts online for cheap? I need a set or rotors and pads.

 

4-I have also read about that annoying knocking sound when the engine has not warmed up yet. Needless to say I have that problem. Anyone ever find an answer for that?

 

Thank in advance for all the help!!!