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Hi,

I need to replace the struts in the rear of my Gen 3 Outback (ltd), which are self levelling. I can't quite afford the $650 for each strut Subaru is asking for, so I'd like to use a standard strut. I know others have done this, and that the spring will also need to be replaced with a standard spring. My question is, are there any other mounts or housings that need to be installed or replaced?

Thanks!

Adam

G'day,
From what I know about Gen 1 Liberty had self leveling - Gen 2 missed out unless it was imported.
Anyway I know that you'll need to remove the compressor/pump which is in engine bay or under the guard - I think it was in Passenger's side guard¿ and for the suspensions - the tower mounts are the same so is the hubs area. You will need 3 different items -

Hat (with rubbers etc)
Struts
and Coils.

Because what I know is that the springs are different between self leveling and standard.

You could consider getting raised springs to lift your Outback - with Kings Raised coils is $120 a pair. - you gonna end up paying for springs anyway and its roughly close same prices as standard coils..
Cheers
AP

Struts - I remember last time I bought rears was $220 a pair. They were Monroe standard ones.
Cheers
AP

You just pull em out and put in normal ones.They are not like the early airbag ones.Not to sure but i think the hats are the same its just the strut and spring that differed.

Here's a pic of a self levelling strut

i have a 97 Outback that you can make an offer on for the 2 rears struts with springs and the left front strut. (right front is damaged but some of it may be usable. if you bought the other struts i would throw it in for you)

PM me if interested

Thanks everyone for your replies, I have the struts and the springs (raised) are on their way. I will post the result for future reference...

adamjgs wrote:Thanks everyone for your replies, I have the struts and the springs (raised) are on their way. I will post the result for future reference...

excelent, i will be raising my outback when i get it, look forward to hearing your results.

will you be doing much off roading in it?

adamjgs wrote:Thanks everyone for your replies, I have the struts and the springs (raised) are on their way. I will post the result for future reference...

So how did it all work out?

stamp_licker wrote:Here's a pic of a self levelling strut

I don't have a separate canister attached to the side / rear of the shocker / strut, as in this drawing. However there appears to be a 'bulb' on the bottom of the shock - about the same height as the diameter of the shock and as high as it is wide.
Is this the 'self levelling' mechanism on an Outback (05 Model Year)?

You need to collect standard version Shocks + Springs + Rear Top Hats.