Transmission Options

[bbjones121]

I don't think a thread has been started on this yet. Since my throwout bearing just seized on my 06 legacy gt and destroyed the snout on my transmission among other things (bent the fork, enlodged itself in my pressure plate fingers, and debris scared my clutch and flywheel). I have to replace the casing on my transmission or get a used one. The case is Subaru part number 32100AA922 and is about $500. Does any subaru expert out there know which other subaru models use an 06 Legacy case? Also, are these compatible with the 818 kit, so if I get a used tranny, I could rebuild my trashed one on a more expanded schedule and use it in my future 818?

Basically I started this thread to find out exactly what model Subaru's use the same transmission case and how they differ.

[bbjones121]

On another note, I would definitely recommend getting this TSK3 kit ($155 locally in Denver, CO) if you buy a used tranny and see that the quill/snout is grooved. Below are some pictures of my tranny snout that half broke off and the TSK3 sleeve kit that is a steel reinforcement that would have saved it. The TSK3 is listed for 06+ Subaru transmissions (excludes STI).

125001249912501

[bbjones121]

Also in case this hasn't been posted yet, here is a company that already produces a AWD to 2WD conversion and it is working on cars that are putting 320hp on the ground (probably over 400hp at the engine crank).
http://www.bremarauto.com/products/subaru-2wd-conversion-kit/

[Evan78]

My condolences. I just went through a throw out bearing failure on my 2005 LGT. Mine only grooved the snout, so I cleaned it up just enough to get the TSK sleeve on.

I was looking at sourcing a used transmission instead of paying to have everything put into a new case. I found decent transmission prices from LKQ.

[Gus]

While visiting various JDM importers in Montreal, I came across a JDM V5 STI 5 speed transmission at JDM racing. It is definitely smaller than the 6 speed, I wonder if it would fit? Here a few pics
125041250512506

[bbjones121]

My condolences. I just went through a throw out bearing failure on my 2005 LGT. Mine only grooved the snout, so I cleaned it up just enough to get the TSK sleeve on.

I was looking at sourcing a used transmission instead of paying to have everything put into a new case. I found decent transmission prices from LKQ.

Thank you. Gave them a call. Only one tranny available in Colorado $1500, but I think they negotiate. How much were they when you looked?

[bbjones121]

To everyone reading, I think the dealer install a new throwout bearing incorrectly which led to its premature failure. I would still recommend the TSK3 sleeve kit for the 818, as it allows smoother clutch feel, but it is not necessary.

[Evan78]

Thank you. Gave them a call. Only one tranny available in Colorado $1500, but I think they negotiate. How much were they when you looked?Since I was only checking prices, I didn't try to negotiate, but here's the ONE that they had in the western region at the time. I'm in Southern California and the trans was in Phoenix and they were willing to deliver to the shop at no charge.

$920 transmission
$75 core charge
$87 tax
$1082 total

126k miles

I don't know how much their sales staff varies, but here's the contact info for the guy I was dealing with:

Robert Martinez
800-525-3667 x5236
rmartinez@lkqcorp.com

[Evan78]

To everyone reading, I think the dealer install a new throwout bearing incorrectly which led to its premature failure. I would still recommend the TSK3 sleeve kit for the 818, as it allows smoother clutch feel, but it is not necessary.I think a TSK3 sleeve kit should always go on to reduce chances of damage from a bearing failure. It's relatively cheap insurance.

[Xusia]

Also in case this hasn't been posted yet, here is a company that already produces a AWD to 2WD conversion and it is working on cars that are putting 320hp on the ground (probably over 400hp at the engine crank).
http://www.bremarauto.com/products/subaru-2wd-conversion-kit/

It's my understanding a conversion kit for the 5 speed (not necessarily this brand) will be included in the 818 kit.

[PhyrraM]

While visiting various JDM importers in Montreal, I came across a JDM V5 STI 5 speed transmission at JDM racing. It is definitely smaller than the 6 speed, I wonder if it would fit? Here a few pics
125041250512506

All the 5-speeds share the same size (and mounting points) profile, so it will fit. The type of clutch and flywheel changed a bit through the years, but as long as it's matched to the transmission your good. The issue is that the center differential had small changes also. This *may* mean that the FFR supplied 2WD conversion kit may not fit all transmissions.

[Gus]

All the 5-speeds share the same size (and mounting points) profile, so it will fit. The type of clutch and flywheel changed a bit through the years, but as long as it's matched to the transmission your good. The issue is that the center differential had small changes also. This *may* mean that the FFR supplied 2WD conversion kit may not fit all transmissions.

As always good info, thanks !!!

[Oppenheimer]

All the 5-speeds share the same size (and mounting points) profile, so it will fit. The type of clutch and flywheel changed a bit through the years, but as long as it's matched to the transmission your good. The issue is that the center differential had small changes also. This *may* mean that the FFR supplied 2WD conversion kit may not fit all transmissions.

Fit = work in 818, but if he wants to fix his LGT driver, doesn't the front diff gear ratio in the trans have to match the ratio in the rear diff?

[PhyrraM]

Fit = work in 818, but if he wants to fix his LGT driver, doesn't the front diff gear ratio in the trans have to match the ratio in the rear diff?

Yes, but it was a different poster asking about the JDM trans sitting at an importer in Montreal.

[prematureapex]

Fit = work in 818, but if he wants to fix his LGT driver, doesn't the front diff gear ratio in the trans have to match the ratio in the rear diff?

I think its the transfer case gear ratio (where the center diff is) that has to match, but yes.

[PhyrraM]

I think its the transfer case gear ratio (where the center diff is) that has to match, but yes.

That I can recall, there are 3.9:1, 4.11:1, and 4.44:1 final drive ratios on AWD 5 speeds. (there may be more & FWD 5-speeds had at least a 3.7:1 option).

There are 1.0:1 and 1.1:1 center diff ratios.

To the best of my knowledge, only the 3.9:1 ratio was used with the 1.1:1 center diff. This particular combination requires a 3.54 rear axle diff (3.54x1.1=3.9). This was used on North American market 2002-2005 2.0 liter WRXs (possibly others). This happens to be the prime 818 donor.

Most cars used the normal 1.0:1 center diff so the transmission final drive must match the rear final drive.

And yes, none of this matters to an 818 builder - only somebody with an AWD Subaru.

[prematureapex]

^^^ yes sir (I think there are others that use the 3.9/1.1 combo.

Good info though, as many builders will want to be able to ID the parts they'll be selling off their donors, which probably includes a rear end, and a transfer case.

[flynntuna]

I don't think a thread has been started on this yet. Since my throwout bearing just seized on my 06 legacy gt and destroyed the snout on my transmission among other things (bent the fork, enlodged itself in my pressure plate fingers, and debris scared my clutch and flywheel). I have to replace the casing on my transmission or get a used one. The case is Subaru part number 32100AA922 and is about $500. Does any subaru expert out there know which other subaru models use an 06 Legacy case? Also, are these compatible with the 818 kit, so if I get a used tranny, I could rebuild my trashed one on a more expanded schedule and use it in my future 818?

Basically I started this thread to find out exactly what model Subaru's use the same transmission case and how they differ.


Was there any warning before the throwout bearing grenaded?

[bbjones121]

Thank you for the info. I was able to negotiate $1400, but that is about it. It only has 54k miles on it so that is good.


Since I was only checking prices, I didn't try to negotiate, but here's the ONE that they had in the western region at the time. I'm in Southern California and the trans was in Phoenix and they were willing to deliver to the shop at no charge.

$920 transmission
$75 core charge
$87 tax
$1082 total

126k miles

I don't know how much their sales staff varies, but here's the contact info for the guy I was dealing with:

Robert Martinez
800-525-3667 x5236
rmartinez@lkqcorp.com

[bbjones121]

I appreciate the input. If I get a used tranny, I will rebuild this grenaded one sometime before I get the 818.


All the 5-speeds share the same size (and mounting points) profile, so it will fit. The type of clutch and flywheel changed a bit through the years, but as long as it's matched to the transmission your good. The issue is that the center differential had small changes also. This *may* mean that the FFR supplied 2WD conversion kit may not fit all transmissions.

[bbjones121]

I guess I will stick with a LGT transmission to replace it with then. I finally broke down and purchased 3 days on techinfo.subaru.com, so I am weighing how much work it would be to tear my transmission apart and just replace the casing myself.


Fit = work in 818, but if he wants to fix his LGT driver, doesn't the front diff gear ratio in the trans have to match the ratio in the rear diff?

[bbjones121]

All just little issues that I never really thought about until after it happened. Ever since the dealer replaced my throwout bearing, the pedal did not depress perfectly smooth. It was almost like the bearing was jamming along its path. I just figured it needed to break in or something or I was just being overly sensitive. Last summer, the clutch would make a clicking noise when depressing it. I took it in to the dealer and they told me the pedal just needed to be lubricated. After awhile, it went away, so I didn't bother. Sometimes in the morning when it was cold, it would squeal for a second when starting the car. Now to someone, these might be pretty good signs to do something, but I have modified my car a lot (over 450hp) and I have been running a stock clutch since the dealer replaced it when they replaced the throwout bearing under warranty. My clutch sometimes slips and I was planning to upgrade the clutch this winter. That being said, I associated some of the signs with a worn out clutch, which maybe I shouldn't have.

Last Saturday everything was fine, then a light turned red ahead and I downshifted. It sounded like I just went over those grooves in the road that help you know if you are veering off the road. Then I downshifted again and a similar feeling. I stopped at the light and told my wife that I think my clutch just fell apart. Once the light turned, the most terrible sounds came from my car, but it felt like it was locked in first. Clutch pedal went to the floor and I didn't want to try shifting. Luckily I was close to my house. I figured the damage was done with the clutch, the engine was still turning and the transmission was still moving so I ran it right up into my garage.


Was there any warning before the throwout bearing grenaded?

[flynntuna]

wow, I get a squeal once in a while, but not everyday, only in first gear then it goes away. I suspected the throwout bearing but the clutch and throwout bearing were replaced last year.

[bbjones121]

wow, I get a squeal once in a while, but not everyday, only in first gear then it goes away. I suspected the throwout bearing but the clutch and throwout bearing were replaced last year.

When you depress the clutch pedal, is there any catching, studder at all?

[flynntuna]

No the clutch is normal. just the squeal at idle and slow speed 1st gear,

[bbjones121]

No the clutch is normal. just the squeal at idle and slow speed 1st gear,

Probably fine. I think that the quill/snout starts to get grooved in which case the throwout bearing does not slide on it smoothly.

[flynntuna]

I got a oil leak in the left(passenger side) head gasket, so I have to pull the engine soon anyway, I just hope it doesn't grenade before then.

[bbjones121]

even people with the sleeve kit say it squeals a bit and you know that is not from a weak snout.

[flynntuna]

Thats good to know thanks.

[bbjones121]

Decided to rebuild my transmission.

Learned some more info. Apparently Legacy gears are sought after by WRX owners, they even sell them on some Subaru performance parts websites. They are the same beefier gears used in the STI. Also, the case is a different part number than a WRX case (I have these written down somewhere and I will add in here). The Legacy transmission case is the same dimensions, but apparently weighs slightly more because it has more material from engineering less flexing. For some reason, it sounds like Subaru Legacy transmissions are supposed to be as strong as an STIs tranny, except for my bloody throwout bearing. I will try to post all the links that I found on this topic from NASIOC when I find out where I put them.

[bbjones121]

Here is a good link to tranny info:
http://www.wrxtuners.com/forums/f69/transmission-faq-read-if-you-thinking-upgrading-13846/

Also, here is a good link to show the gear thickness of some subaru transmissions.
http://flatironsrally.typepad.com/faq/2010/05/comparison-of-subaru-gear-sets-wrx-legacy-gt-sti-ra-and-more.html