Subaru Crew - Meet The Members II

bat1161

Nice pics of the OB in Williamsburg. I thought you can't drive on those streets? At least somebody is having fun:)

Mark

c_hunter

Mike: my wife stayed in bed for the 7am run (actually, she yelled at me and then fell asleep), but I did get her out this afternoon. We took a leisurely drive along the Colonial Parkway, and it was really nice. This is the first time I've seen a lot of this local scenery with snow.

Steve: I think VA must have gotten your snow. Very uncharacteristic of us to get snow and for you not to have any!

Mark: you are correct, we're not supposed to drive on those streets :-) They do allow limited driving for locals who live in the historic area, and I figured nobody would bother me at 7:30 am on a snowy day. The place was pretty deserted.

Craig

locke2c

craig, the thunking is the center diff. it's the multiplate clutch pack abruptly engaging as a result of wheelspin.

oh and is anyone else having trouble with subscriptions? (again) mine are either dead or just not working, had to come here and sniff out the new messages manually.

-Colin

c_hunter

What, you mean we don't have to check for new messages manually??

I'll have to check this out!

Craig

outback165

Craig, I am SOOOOOO jealous looking at those pictures!

Before the holiday, my wife told me she wanted to start the Subaru Widows Club. I'm thinking if she did, then they would have something to do when we went for drives (I settle for rainy days!) or want to wax our wheels!

As much as I love the warm weather in Florida, I would love to take my OB out for a spin in some snow.

See you tonight in the chat room???

Pete.

miksmi

Colin,

I gave up on subscriptions along time ago. I enable autologin, then use a browser shortcut to log me in and take me to the Subaru Crew top level. Then I look for topics with new messages. Not as convenient as subscriptions, but it always works.

Subaru Widows Club hehe, I love it, Pete! Serge, I think we need a new certificate to compliment the OCD one.

..Mike, keeping it simple in MD

locke2c

that's the odd thing mike... I noticed the last time they broke and this time too that I in fact don't see any new messages when looking at the list of topics in SC. that would explain why the subscription piece isn't finding anything, it doesn't think there are new messages.

but there are... hmm.

-Colin

twrx

It had better snow here this weekend. I'm getting tired of all the posts from areas where it has. I predicted that the first snow area people would brag and make the rest of us jealous.

Don't have to worry about my wife calling her self a Subaru widow since she is looking forward to driving her RS in the snow.

TWRX

bigfrank3

Mine aren't working either... except for "Forester", I think. I am also showing no new messages, as is Colin, even when there are some.

Regards,
Frank

locke2c

ok, so I'm not crazy. I bet Karen and team will fix this up quick or tell us how if it's a client thing.

-Colin

miksmi

Colin & Frank, you've probably tried this, but delete the 2 edmunds.com cookies and delete all temporary files. I have to delete temp files periodically or IE6 (and IE5) and/or the HTTP server (not just Edmunds) get confused. IE is another kwality (with a "K") MSFT product.

..Mike

c_hunter

This is only the second time I've been able to drive a Subaru in the snow, and only the 3rd time in about 10 years we've gotten this much snow in this part of VA. Last year we got zilch. So, you see, I EARNED it through years of suffering and waiting!!

Craig

jimmyj1945

We have snow in Lubbock, Texas (Yes-Texas) and I have no Subaru to drive. I am taking my wife to the Auto Show in Fort Worth, February 1st, and will try to talk her into a Subaru. She wants a 4WD/AWD vehicle, but she likes to be high off the ground (Pick-Up Trucks). If I cannot get her to go for the Subaru, then I am thinking about trading my Infiniti I-30 next year for an Outback Bean/VDC. I am already nuts (wanting a Subaru-AWD)from reading the various Subaru boards and have never even driven a Subaru in my life. Is it a big step from an Infiniti to a Subaru? Dollar wise it is about the same. Any Comments? I am truly interested.

Jim

c_hunter

I can't make a comparison to the I-30 since I have never driven one, but I think the Bean and VDC stack up well against upscale vehicles in general. This is mainly in terms of the quietness, smoothness, and general feel of the materials and finish. Both the Bean and VDC feel very refined to me. I chose a Bean over an Acura MDX about a month ago, and feel like I definitely picked the better vehicle.

That said, there are certain features on Lexus, Acura, Volvo, and Infiniti vehicles that are not available on the Bean/VDC, like seat/mirror memory presets, radio controls on the steering wheel, GPS, dual zone climate control, etc. There are probably many more that I can't think of or don't know of. If these little touches are important to you (and they are to some people) keep this in mind.

In every other aspect, I feel like the Bean/VDC can hold its own against the best of them. Go test drive one -- I know you will be impressed! In my opinion, the Bean and VDC take everything that is great about Subaru vehicles (and that's a lot!) and elevates it to a more upscale feel. Same great car as the Outback, just a little more refinement and luxury.

Craig

hondafriek

My wife thinks I should committed alright, to a place that has rubber rooms that is
Cheers Pat.

bigfrank3

2 times ago, when this happened I did all that, and it didn't make any difference. The last time it happened I didn't do anything and it miraculously fixed itself after a couple of days.

When the problem happens, it happens on both my machines (home/work) at the same time, and fixes itself at the same time. It is always the Crew subs, never "Forester". I guarantee the problem is not at my end.

By the way, I use IE501SP2 and have no problems going anywhere or doing anything with it.

Regards,
Frank

locke2c

I have IE 5.5 at work, 6.0 at home both will all the latest patches. Like Frank I've noticed this problem occurs on both machines simultaneously and I've never been able to fix it myself, someone on webX's end figures it out or undoes their last change.

-Colin

miksmi

Frank,

Interesting that it's the Crew subscriptions, not Forester (and presumably other) subscriptions that have the problem. As Colin says, sounds like it's at the WebX end (Edmund's HTTP service for those that don't already know).

Jim,

Re: jimmyj1945 Jan 3, 2002 2:55pm

Adding to Craig's astute observation about the lack of some Subaru amenities (seat/mirror memory), the steering wheel tilts but doesn't telescope (though our 91 Legacy L did, maybe that feature will return some day).

My favorite thing about a Subaru is the AWD launch. Even in dry weather, it's noticeably different than a FWD car.

Consider the oft-overlooked Legacy GT if you prefer a sportier/stiffer suspension. GT wagon also has dual moonroofs, BBS alloy wheels (which IMO look great and are easier to clean than the wheel covers on my 93 Civic steel wheels), power driver's seat, and some other trim differences. My wife has a MY00 Legacy GT wagon, 5speed manual (5MT), and likes it, as do I when I can wrestle it away.

Note: the GT is H4 165hp; LLBean and VDC are H6 212hp. Some find the H4 w/4EAT (auto) is sluggish; IMO the H4 w/5MT is quick (but not a dragster). I encourage you to drive both engines with your typical passenger load to help decide.

Also, if you like or don't mind shifting, consider the 5MT; its default AWD torque split is 50/50, the 4EAT is 90/10 front/rear (until slippage, then torque transfer occurs). I prefer the feel of the 50/50 on dry tarmac (admittedly, I'm also comparing manual to auto).

Feel free to ask other questions and we'll try to help. Thanks for joining us.

..Mike

locke2c

quote:the 4EAT is 90/10 front/rear (until slippage, then torque transfer occurs

mike, don't forget that the H6 Outbacks and WRX automatics both have a 45/55 default torque split as opposed to the others that are basically dragging the rear end until slippage occurs.

-Colin
(btw I see 'new' messages now! read subscriptions is still broken though.)

bluesubie

Colin/Mike - that's 90/10 in "normal" driving. :-)
On acceleration, for example, the torque split changes quickly. Not just in slippery conditions.
This is according to Ed at ISR (SubyTechMaster).
http://www.i-club.com/forums/showthread.php?threadid=84430&referrerid=767
-Dennis

bigfrank3

Same here, new messages but no subs.

Regards,
Frank

1subydown1togo

I'm having problems on both IE5.5 and Netscape (which wont even bring up the login screen). An auspicious beginning

miksmi

Thanks, Colin! I completely forgot that. Dennis, great link! Here's an excerpt (grammar isn't mine):

SubyTechMaster 11-29-2001 01:24 AM begin

The TCU will split the torque however is needed according to a program unless the speed sensors indicate a slip. You can observe this by looking at the data stream from the TCU for the MPT clutch solonoid (solonoid C). As you accelerate the split will be 50/50 no matter what gear range, when you are cruising it goes to FWD (95%) to save fuel.

If the A/T stayed at 90/10 like is often stated the MPT clutch would wear out in a month. This is clutch pack and it will not last if it is slipping. It will be at partial engagement only to lesson shock, otherwise 0% duty is 50/50, 95% duty is FWD or 100/0. There is no 100%duty.

Under hard braking (ABS) the A/T shifts into 3rd with no engine braking (coasting) and the split goes to 100/0 (FWD).

and

The only time the TCU is going to "lock" the torque split 50/50 (other than a slipping wheel condition) is in Failsafe, typically for a Speed Sensor fault or an MPT Solonoid fault.

SubyTechMaster 11-29-2001 01:24 AM end

Summary: H4 4EAT has three front/rear torque split modes:

accelerating at 50/50 front/rear, 0% duty, AWD
cruising at 100/0, 95% duty, FWD
hard braking (ABS), shifts to 3rd gear w/no engine braking, 100/0, FWD.

Great info, thanks guys!

Cheers,

..Mike

locke2c

interesting stuff. I'd like to see what Ed would say about the H6 and WRX autos.

btw, just realized that when I read this forum it always starts me on #6790 1/2/02 10:30pm. that apparently is about when things were broken? it doesn't seem like a coincidence that I always start on that message and have to scroll forward to see the new ones, at about the same time subscriptions failed. oh well.

-Colin

1subydown1togo

for those of you in the NY NJ area, and parts south or north, Rallispec is back. Here is the i-club link http://www.i-club.com/forums/showthread.php?s=7f37a7940afe4e4f83e0109d09222dff&threadid=131335

miksmi

That's great news. Thanks, Serge.

c_hunter

One correction, guys. Only the VDC has the 45/55 split with the variable torque distribution system. The Bean has the same AWD system as auto-trans H4 Outbacks.

What does "0% duty" and "95% duty" refer to?

Craig

bluesubie

That's great news! Thanks for the link. I rarely check the General forums anymore.

Would duty be the torque itself, or the changes in the car (accel/decel) to cause the torque changes?

-Dennis

bigfrank3

The duty cycle in the above example is percentage of time the solonoid is actuated. Think of it as time "on" versus time "off". It is a "pulse" with the duty cycle being the duration of the pulse. A 95% duty cycle means it is "on" 95% of the time. When the solonoid is "on" the clutch is engaged.

I tried to "draw" the waveform but it came out like crap.

Regards,
Frank

locke2c

craig, you're right. the cars with the VTD planetary gear center diff have 45/55, the Bean doesn't.

0% duty means none of the clutchs are engaged. this is the drag I was referring to earlier, since the clutches are mechanically connected at all times but there's no force on them unless they are engaged. 95% duty means all the clutches (3-4? I have no idea how many, I'm wildly guessing) are locked all the time. there should be virtually no speed difference between the front and rear outputs on the center diff when this is the case.

edit: frank did a better job explaining duty cycle. hopefully between the two answers you get the idea.

-Colin

1subydown1togo

It looks like Speedvision (Speed Channel will be having same day coverage of the Monte Carlo Rally (Jan 17-20)

Sorry, juice!

bluesubie

There are some q's on the WRX Wagon owner's forum about adding front LSD's. Care to comment over there?

-Dennis

Karen_S

If I could use the word I'd like to, I'd have to delete the post and send myself a warning about profanity.

I do know there is some tweaking and tuning going on behind the scenes. Who knows if that is the issue, but I'll tell them anyway.

Sorry for the inconvenience.

KarenS
Host
Owner's Clubs

outback165

Anyone know where I can find out more information about changing a chip in a Legacy GT? Is it as easy to modify these as it is to modify an Impreza?

Thanks for the help.

Pete.

armac13

seem to be working again.

Ross

eric102

Has anyone used the portable generator Subaru sells? I see they have a $300 rebate on them now at Subaru.com, that would get the price down to about $250. Wondering about the noise level, being a 2 stroke it's probably not real quiet. I would use it on my boat or for camping. Honda's start at about $650.

Eric

armac13

I wrote too soon. Subscriptions not working again. :-(

Ross

miksmi

Hi Eric,

That's a great deal. Thanks; I missed it on Subaru's obfuscation of HTML (a.k.a. their website). Wonder if they're Y2K leftovers.

My research (read: not 100% sure) shows Subaru UltiMite generator part# 926U100 is a Coleman PowerMate UltiMite part# PMG201000. Interestingly, Robins makes the 4-cycle engine (perhaps entire generator) and is a subsidiary of FHI (Fuji Heavy Industries), which owns SoA (Subaru of America).

References:

Note: In the links, delete the bogus text and extraneous spaces and concatenate multi-line links. WebX (who hosts this Edumnds site) is basura.

http://www.ultimite.com/main/Features.htm ignore bogus text added to avoid WebX bug (115 character limit)

http://www.familyhandyman.com/200104/tools/main.html ignore bogus text added to avoid WebX bug (115 character limit)

http://robinamerica.com/generators/ ignore bogus text added to avoid WebX bug (115 character limit)

http://www.subaru.com/ultimitecoupon.html ignore bogus text added to avoid WebX bug (115 character limit)

$547.50 at http://www.subaru-parts.com .

I didn't find reviews on epinions.com but found a post on the rec.outdoors.rv-travel; select View: Complete Thread (12 articles):

http://groups.google.com/groups?q=Ultimite+generator&selm=IIlU4.45140 ignore bogus text added to avoid WebX bug (115 character limit) %24g62.651751%40news1.rdc1.ab.home.com

I went to http://groups.google.com/advanced_group_search and searched for "UltiMite generator".

Paul, are you familiar with the supposedly quiet Onan MicroLite generator for RVs?

http://www.cummins.com/na/pages/en/products/powergeneration/generators/microlite_microquiet.cfm

Or, if you're handy, DIY. Check this out:

http://theepicenter.com/tow02077.html

Eric, I hope this helps. Let us know what you do.

Cheers,

..Mike in MD

rsholland

I have a Yamaha 6600 that I use when we lose electricity at home—which is all too frequent.

Bob

miksmi

Ok, sports fans, I finally figured out this insidious bug in the WebX forum software. Take these innocent looking URLs:

http://www.ultimite.com/main/Features.htm

http://www.familyhandyman.com/200104/tools/main.html

http://robinamerica.com/generators/

The 2nd link (familyhandyman) causes the dreaded 115 character limit bug ("You cannot post any words greater than 115 characters."). To demonstrate, copy and paste those three lines, delete the trailing space on line 2, and attempt to post.

Bottom line:

1. Add a trailing space to every URL.
2. Break up long URLs by inserting a space(s) and ask user to manually concatenate the lines.

..Mike

eric102

For all the links, that will keep me busy for a while.

Bob, I have a 6000 watt at home to, power was out for 12 hours last time (wind storm).

Eric

hammersley

Yup, I'm familiar... I own one (the 4000) on the MH... and they are pretty quiet. Runs about a gallon of fuel per hour. Always starts, pretty easy to maintain.

Cheers!
Paul

miksmi

No problem, Eric. Stay in touch.

Paul, 4kW is serious power! So are the Onan MicroLite generally accepted (in the RV community, that is) as the quietest, or is there another brand almost as (or more) quiet as the Onan?

..Mike

ateixeira

Wow, I didn't even realize there were new posts, and suddenly I'm 60 posts behind. Not only my subscriptions, but even the Subare Crew list of topics didn't show any new posts.

I'm doing the snow dance tonight. First snow looks likely tomorrow.

rallispec is back, nice New Year's gift.

-juice

miksmi

fibber2

I bought a Generac 4000XL (OHV, regulated 4kw) few years back for home duty as we are in a rural area and loose power. Nothing is worse than a cold house, no well water, etc. when it is below zero outside!

Just before my uncle died this Fall he sold his rural home and gave me his 'whole house' system. It is sitting on a slab outside, but I have yet to muster the time and attention to getting it hooked up.

Steve

lucien2

....getting lamer every time I check. Storm Watch has been dropped.

1subydown1togo

Karen, any updates on fixes?

Karen_S

...but haven't gotten a reply yet.

I'll keep trying.

KarenS
Host
Owner's Clubs

paisan

I should have the video up later today. I managed to get the Trooper air-borne on a backroad upstate in the snow this weekend and captured it on video! Quite nifty seeing a 5500lb vehicle leave the earth!



-mike