Any pitfalls using a Saab 9-2x aero?

[JFeyler]

I was wondering if anyone has run into an issue with using the 9-2x as a full donor. I see on the google doc sheet that has been shared that its listed as a full donor car, but I was curious if anyone ran into any issues using one. While its essentially a WRX with Saab panels and badges, I just wanted to make sure that if I needed to replace something like the auto transmission with a manual that I'm not going to have to have an issue with a Subaru tranny. Thanks.

[Bob_n_Cincy]

I was wondering if anyone has run into an issue with using the 9-2x as a full donor. I see on the google doc sheet that has been shared that its listed as a full donor car, but I was curious if anyone ran into any issues using one. While its essentially a WRX with Saab panels and badges, I just wanted to make sure that if I needed to replace something like the auto transmission with a manual that I'm not going to have to have an issue with a Subaru tranny. Thanks.

I looked closely at using a 9-2x as my donor. I saw no issues.
Of hundreds of 818 on here, I only know of one built as an automatic.
Both my donors were forester XT automatics (04-05). I switched them to 5 speed manuals.
I chose that car for the 2.5L with STI internals. Also no immobilizer to deal with.
About $2500 for a run and drive copart salvage car plus fees.
One from Detroit and one from Georgia. I recommend staying out of the rust belt.
Bob

[JFeyler]

I wasn't planning on using the automatic in my build, but I see where I didn't make that apparent, I am planning to swap the auto for a manual. But then again this Saab is already someones daily driver. I might end up just buying a salvage, but i don't want it sitting in my driveway for months before I get the kit.

[Aero STI]

The 92x will work perfectly for everything you need from a donor. The 2005 92x Aero came with the STI steering rack. I believe in 2006 the Aero, WRX and STI had identical racks.

I've had a handful of them, converted a few to EJ207s, still have the one I bought new in 2005. Of course it's now running a full JDM V9 Spec C Type RA drivetrain...

[Wayne Presley]

Yes they will work, I've used one

[turbomacncheese]

Bob, what parts did you have to add for using a Forester? I want to cast as wide a net as possible while I'm searching, and I didn't know Foresters were on the list.
Also, I heard one of the techs mention a Legacy in one of the videos. Anything to watch out for there?
Wifey suggested I might buy a donor before school lets out, even. I might take her up on it

[Bob_n_Cincy]

Bob, what parts did you have to add for using a Forester? I want to cast as wide a net as possible while I'm searching, and I didn't know Foresters were on the list.
Also, I heard one of the techs mention a Legacy in one of the videos. Anything to watch out for there?
Wifey suggested I might buy a donor before school lets out, even. I might take her up on it

Turbo,
There is a donor spread sheet.

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets...J-E/edit#gid=1


The rear mount on the forester LCA is different. No problem finding the correct mount. 50-$100
The dash cluster is a little different shape and pin out. We used it in our car but was fine for our car. (not a show car)

That is the only issues I can remember with the forester XT. We are using 2 of them for our 2 818s.

http://www.copart.com/us/Lot/2867967...chId=351909814

Bob

PS: The spreadsheet shows the forester having rear drum brakes. The forester XT (turbo) has rear disk.


Here is one I would go after for about $2000. 07 FXT 5MT 133k miles.
The forester XT with manual transmissions are harder to find. You can tell by the console picture.
If any Subaru has front right damage, there is a good chance that the car wil have right side cam sprocket damage and bent valves.
Bob

[turbomacncheese]

Thanks. I don't think I would have considered cam sprocket damage. And thanks for the link to the spreadsheet.

[Wayne Presley]

That Forrester looks like it has that damage, pass on it