Using Forester Springs/Struts/Shocks to lift 1st Gen Outbacks

[socal1200r]

I just read thru all 16 pages in this thread, and my head hurts, and I'm more confused now than when I started, lol! OB springs in FOR Struts, Rallitek HD springs, XT struts, on and on and on...

So it sounds like the simplest way to lift my '98 OB is to install Gen 2 Forester complete strut assemblies, yes? And these could be either "take offs", or just order new from the local auto parts store, as long as they're complete assemblies (struts, springs, perches) for a Gen 2 Forester, yes?

How much lift will this give me, and will it be level front AND rear?

If I wanted to get 2" of lift, do I need spacers and longer bolts? If so, what size front and rear, in order to keep it level (1/2" front, 1" rear)? Will I need anything with 2" of lift other than spacers (i.e. camber kit for correct alignment)? What's a good source for spacers and camber kits?

Lastly, the stock tire size is 205/70-15, and I'd like to run 225/70-15 AT tires (smallest size I could find), which calculates out to 27.4" in overall diameter. Will 2" of lift give me enough clearance to avoid any rubbing issues? Not really interested in running 16" setup, like to keep the 15" alloys with the larger tires.

[rooback185]

thanks you very much.

[CRzepecki]

I tried to read through all the posts, but got tired after page 11. Lol. I am gonna just straight swap the 97 OB LT for the 04 FOR XT, front and rear complete strut/mount/spring assemblies. Possibly the Subtle Spacers.

MY MAIN QUESTION:
Do I need to extend/lengthen any brake/fuel/etc lines??

[amillion3]

You do not need to lengthen the brake lines. I did the full 04 FX assemblies with a 1/2" subtle spacers in the rear. Brake line length was fine. Though, you will have to either disconnect the brake line or cut the bracket off and find another way to attach it to the newer struts (ahem, zip ties).

[CRzepecki]

Awesome! Thanks for the info. Just fixed my Muffler and Inner Tie rod end. Next is all 4 Strut Assemblies with mounts. After that comes Skid Plates, Rubberized Coating in place of Grey 2 tone bottom, and also thinking about the Borla Header with High Flow Cat.

Here are just a few pics of the car, clean and dirty. Haha I'll take some more recent ones soon. Just put on Impreza Muffler with Dual Tip and cut black plastic trim on bottom of rear bumper.

[Suparu]

sounds like you're on the right track. Maybe .5" spacers rear witht he FXT struts. I have a sedan so no personal experience with the wagonlift but my experience and reading indicates a .5 inch spacer in back will make things look better.

I think the gen 2 FOR struts will yield about an inch-1.5" on an gen 1 OB (maybe visually less in the rear)

If you want 2" do a 1" spacer (google subtle solutions, they seem to be most regular with having inventory)

With 2" lift I'd suggest a camber kit for the front and maybe rear. I ended up having to get a kit for each corner but I think all told I'm a hair over 2" all around.. . . BUT I've got the most frankenstien lift on my gen 2 legacy.

best to ya!

Originally Posted by socal1200r

I just read thru all 16 pages in this thread, and my head hurts, and I'm more confused now than when I started, lol! OB springs in FOR Struts, Rallitek HD springs, XT struts, on and on and on...

So it sounds like the simplest way to lift my '98 OB is to install Gen 2 Forester complete strut assemblies, yes? And these could be either "take offs", or just order new from the local auto parts store, as long as they're complete assemblies (struts, springs, perches) for a Gen 2 Forester, yes?

How much lift will this give me, and will it be level front AND rear?

If I wanted to get 2" of lift, do I need spacers and longer bolts? If so, what size front and rear, in order to keep it level (1/2" front, 1" rear)? Will I need anything with 2" of lift other than spacers (i.e. camber kit for correct alignment)? What's a good source for spacers and camber kits?

Lastly, the stock tire size is 205/70-15, and I'd like to run 225/70-15 AT tires (smallest size I could find), which calculates out to 27.4" in overall diameter. Will 2" of lift give me enough clearance to avoid any rubbing issues? Not really interested in running 16" setup, like to keep the 15" alloys with the larger tires.

[Suparu]

You'll be psyched with the lift!! go for it! You have 4EAT or 5MT?

Originally Posted by CRzepecki

Awesome! Thanks for the info. Just fixed my Muffler and Inner Tie rod end. Next is all 4 Strut Assemblies with mounts. After that comes Skid Plates, Rubberized Coating in place of Grey 2 tone bottom, and also thinking about the Borla Header with High Flow Cat.

Here are just a few pics of the car, clean and dirty. Haha I'll take some more recent ones soon. Just put on Impreza Muffler with Dual Tip and cut black plastic trim on bottom of rear bumper.

[CRzepecki]

4EAT. Im pricing my Struts/Springs/Mounts right now. Any suggestions on websites?

[CRzepecki]

Im finding that the 2004 Suspension is more than the 2008. Can I use the Spring/Strut/Mount setup from a 08 Forester XT? Or do special mods have to be done?

[Suparu]

Originally Posted by CRzepecki

4EAT. Im pricing my Struts/Springs/Mounts right now. Any suggestions on websites?

tirerack.com
rockauto.com
partsgeek.com