How to Remove a Manual Subaru Transmission
If you need to replace your clutch, you will have to remove your transmission. Removing your Subaru transmission is straightforward and similar to removing most transmissions with some key differences. Another reason you may need to replace your transmission is if you need to have it rebuilt by a transmission specialist or replaced. The transmission is relatively heavy, so it might help if you had a helper to help you lift the transmission in and out of the car and ensure that it remains on the transmission lift during removal.
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Things You'll Need
- Jack
- Jack stands
- Transmission lift or transmission lift attachment for a jack
- Ratchet
- Wrenches
Instructions
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1
Jack the vehicle and place it on jack stands.
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2
Drain the transmission gear oil so that it doesn't leak when you are removing the transmission.
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3
Disconnect the driveshaft from the transmission with two 12-mm wrenches. One will be used to hold the nut and the other to loosen the bolt.
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4
Remove the exhaust pipe with a ratchet as the exhaust will also be in the way of transmission removal. You will only have to remove the pipe that connects the up-pipe to the catalytic converter.
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5
Remove the transmission mount at the top the transmission with a ratchet to loosen the bolt and a wrench to hold the nut.
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6
Disconnect any electrical connectors attached to the transmission. To do this, squeeze the connector with your thumb and index finger and pull.
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7
Disconnect both drive axles from the transmission. Subaru uses pins that hold the axles to the transmission. Use a punch and hammer to drive the pins out to remove the axles and then pull the axles out of the transmission.
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8
Remove the bolts holding the transmission to the engine block (there will be approximately seven or eight bolts). Place a transmission lift underneath the transmission to hold the transmission and lower it down. If you don't have a transmission lift, you can also use a transmission attachment for your jack.
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9
Shake the transmission back and forth until it drops onto the jack. Pull the transmission straight back, ensuring that no pressure is put on the input shaft, then lower the transmission to the ground.
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Tips & Warnings
Loosening the bolts on the driveshaft may be difficult because the driveshaft will have a tendency to spin. To stop the driveshaft from spinning, engage the e-brake.
The transmission is very heavy (150 lb.) and could inflict injury if you are not careful. If you aren't in good shape physically, this job is better left to the pros.
Wear safety goggles to protect yourself from injury.
