2021 Subaru Forester BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Transmission Assembly: Installation

  1. When having overhauled the transmission body, refer to "Preparation for overhaul". Ref. to CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (TR580)>Preparation for Overhaul>PROCEDURE>AFTER OVERHAUL .
  2. Replace the differential side retainer oil seal with a new part. Ref. to CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (TR580)>Differential Side Retainer Oil Seal>REPLACEMENT .
  3. Install the transmission case cover (rear).

    Tightening torque: 

    8 N.m (0.8 kgf-m, 5.9 ft-lb)

  4. Install the rear cushion rubber.

    Tightening torque: 

    40 N.m (4.1 kgf-m, 29.5 ft-lb)

  5. Place the transmission body on the transmission jack.
  6. Strike and bend the transmission hanger with a rubber hammer etc. so that it gets in contact with the transmission case.
    CAUTION: Do not apply extra overload or impact to the transmission case.
    G08317747Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  7. Install the transmission body.
    NOTE:
    • Adjust the position and angle of the transmission jack and engine body if necessary.
    • Temporarily install the bolts and nuts which hold lower side of the transmission.
    G08317742Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  8. Install the transmission rear Cross Member.

    Tightening torque: 

    T1: 35 N.m (3.6 kgf-m, 25.8 ft-lb)

    T2: 70 N.m (7.1 kgf-m, 51.6 ft-lb)

    Fig 1: Transmission Rear Cross Member Bolts And Nuts (With Torque Specification)
    G11255542Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  9. Remove the transmission jack.
  10. Tighten the bolts and nuts which hold lower side of the transmission.

    Tightening torque: 

    50 N.m (5.1 kgf-m, 36.9 ft-lb)

  11. Install the exhaust hanger bracket.

    Tightening torque: 

    23 N.m (2.3 kgf-m, 17.0 ft-lb)

  12. Connect the select cable to the transmission main body.
    CAUTION: Do not apply excessive load while holding the part (a).
    G13591814Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
    NOTE: Set the washer before installing the snap pin.

    Tightening torque: 

    25 N.m (2.5 kgf-m, 18.4 ft-lb)

    G13225470Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  13. Install the bolts which hold upper side of transmission.

    Tightening torque: 

    50 N.m (5.1 kgf-m, 36.9 ft-lb)

    G08317735Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  14. Install the propeller shaft. Ref. to PROPELLER SHAFT/DRIVE SHAFT/AXLE>PROPELLER SHAFT>INSTALLATION .
  15. Install the front drive shaft. Ref. to PROPELLER SHAFT/DRIVE SHAFT/AXLE>FRONT DRIVE SHAFT>INSTALLATION .
  16. Remove ST (ENGINE SUPPORT BRACKET and ENGINE SUPPORT).
  17. Install the torque converter to drive plate.
    1. Remove the ST from converter case.
      NOTE: Be careful not to drop the ST into the converter case when removing the ST.
      G13224276Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
    2. Insert the wrench into the crank pulley bolt, and rotate the crank pulley to attach the four bolts securing the torque converter to the drive plate.
      NOTE: Be careful not to drop bolts into the converter housing.

      Tightening torque: 

      25 N.m (2.5 kgf-m, 18.4 ft-lb)

    3. Install the plug (B) to the service hole, and connect the connector (A).
      G13224274Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
    4. Install the PCV hose. Ref. to EMISSION CONTROL (AUX. EMISSION CONTROL DEVICES (H4DO)>PCV HOSE>INSTALLATION>PCV HOSE NO. 1 .
  18. Install the engine wiring harness stay.
    1. Install the engine wiring harness stay, and install the clip (A).

      Tightening torque: 

      19 N.m (1.9 kgf-m, 14.0 ft-lb)

    2. Install the engine ground and the harness case.
      NOTE: Use the following formula to calculate the reading of a torque wrench when tightening with a crowfoot wrench.
      Calculation formula
      T = 19 N.m (1.9 kgf-m, 14.0 ft-lb) x L1/(L1 + L2)
      T: Reading of the torque wrench
      L1: Effective length of the torque wrench
      L2: Effective length of the crowfoot wrench
      NOTE: If the effective length of the tool used is unknown, consult the manufacturer of the tool.
      Chapter Navigation
      Return to Chapter: Transmission Assembly
      Factory Service Tools

      Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

      Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

      Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.

      Shop Manual-Ready ToolsCompare Repair QuoteQuote Shield Pro

      When to See a Mechanic

      Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

      • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
      • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
      • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
      • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
      • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.