The AUSubaru.com.au Forums

I would like to hear people's opinions about this, particularly in the case Gen 1 and 2 Libertys, which I am currently in the market for. I know the low ratio isn't so good in the manuals, and the centre diff needs a quick wiring mod to work better in the autos. Can anyone tell me how good the auto is for rock crawling compared to a manual (with or without the L series low range modification)?

I'm going to tell you about manual side thing, I own Gen 2 wagon, before it had 1.19:1 low range, it was really crap for offroad, whenever I go down steep hill i tend go too fast or use brakes but locks up on slippery surface or very loose surface and it fears me slipping into something... (El Freddo can vouch for that!)

So I upgraded with 1.59:1 from L Series low range, did that job myself, wasnt hard tho, (you can read my thread that is in my signature) but best gearbox to work with is Gen1 Liberty box because of similarities with L series box... That upgrade is WORTH doing, I can creep downhill without locking up or braking or accelerating etc... Very happy with the upgrade, even can tow a trailer lot easily.

Other option to avoid the upgrade is to look for Impreza 2.0 (roughly 1999-2002 models) they already have 1.52:1 low ratio, that is if you want to keep AWD.

2nd other option is to use L series P/T EA 4WD box.

I haven't driven auto box for offroad - there is a few guys in here that has autos and have gone off road - I'll let them tell you about it.
Cheers
AP

Sounds like the ideal setup with the 1.59:1 low range. So if I find a good deal on a manual that would definitely be a good option.

I have never owned an auto, but it would be alright if the torque converter can handle rock crawling without overheating, and if the centre diff wiring mod works as well or better than the manual viscous centre diff.

The other concern I have is the reliability of subaru automatic transmissions. I read on here that they are pretty good though....