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Just picked up an '85 Brat


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For $750. Not too bad of shape, came with some extra parts, and a topper. Supposedly it dies after about 30 minutes of driving, but starts back up right away. Haven't had that happen yet to me though.

 

And I couldn't find 5th gear. Was a 4speed an option on this thing, and maybe the trans was swapped? Shifter is quite loose, but I would think I could at least find the gear! Can't say I have tried sitting still with the engine off yet though.

 

Anything else I should look out for on this thing? Haven't dealt with 80s Subarus yet.

 

4165_1144943470070_1422019120_30385938_6135191_n.jpg

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There are some that have replaced the 4 speed tranny with a 5 speed out of a later model EA82 vehicle. A worthwhile option. Write-ups can be found.

 

As long as you're new to Brats, don't try the 4WD mode on pavement. It doesn't work and can damage the gearbox....only on dirt or with snow on the ground.

 

Welcome to the world of Subaru. My son introduced me to his Brat 10+ years ago and I'm thoroughly hooked.

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There are some that have replaced the 4 speed tranny with a 5 speed out of a later model EA82 vehicle. A worthwhile option. Write-ups can be found.

 

As long as you're new to Brats, don't try the 4WD mode on pavement. It doesn't work and can damage the gearbox....only on dirt or with snow on the ground.

 

Welcome to the world of Subaru. My son introduced me to his Brat 10+ years ago and I'm thoroughly hooked.

 

Ah, 4WD thing I did not know, though I assumed it might be that way since it has a 4lo, unlike my Legacy which is obviously AWD.

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Ah, 4WD thing I did not know, though I assumed it might be that way since it has a 4lo, unlike my Legacy which is obviously AWD.
If it has a 4lo, it has a 4hi too. Try to find a copy of How To Keep Your Subaru Alive, it will give you some enjoyable reading and some of the basics that you need to know if you're doing your own work.
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Supposedly it dies after about 30 minutes of driving, but starts back up right away. Haven't had that happen yet to me though.

 

When it happens to you, post back up. Check first to see if it's missing spark or fuel. Both fixes are pretty common and well known.
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If it has a 4lo, it has a 4hi too. Try to find a copy of How To Keep Your Subaru Alive, it will give you some enjoyable reading and some of the basics that you need to know if you're doing your own work.

 

Well I'm quite familar with the Legacy, as I've been working on them since 2001. Just haven't ventured to the old school stuff before.

 

When it happens to you, post back up. Check first to see if it's missing spark or fuel. Both fixes are pretty common and well known.

 

Hasn't stalled, though I did feel it miss a couple times just now on the way home from a friends house. It's raining out, so tomorrow when it's nice I'm going to check the distributor and whatnot. The miss was quite evident too, and only seemed to happen(could be coincidence) when I was engine braking.

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Lets not overlook the obvious if the picture holds true to the interior etc..

 

Nice find!

 

Lots of people in here dreaming of a $750. Brat... I would have bought it at a heart beat... (as long as low to no rust)

 

I love my 84 Brat with the roof windows etc... This weekend I had abunch of kids (18-19 yrs) at a gas station asking me what a "Brat" is? sorry I didn't have my seats in the back or that would have really spun them up... and yes, assure you do/don't have a 5 speed.. if it didn't go in then probably don't. (just changed the knob) The only real difference is the 5 speed is shorter then the 4 speed but that 5th gear makes a world of difference.. I highly recommend the switch once you have had time to bond with your new Brat...

 

All Hail the Brat...

 

That is all....

 

Welcome to the old school section...

Edited by Indrid cold
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That looks like the one that "The Yeti" bought from a lady out in Byers a couple years ago. Same color and same topper. If it is it has some rust on the shock towers but overall is in pretty ok shape.

 

I might be interested in buying the topper if you want to get rid of it.

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That looks like the one that "The Yeti" bought from a lady out in Byers a couple years ago. Same color and same topper. If it is it has some rust on the shock towers but overall is in pretty ok shape.

 

I might be interested in buying the topper if you want to get rid of it.

 

I do believe you are correct. I bought it in Arvada from a lady who was going to restore it. And there is some rust that's been seen to on the rear shock towers.

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