1988 Subaru GL Wagon Repair Manual

The 1988 Subaru GL Wagon is a versatile all-wheel drive vehicle featuring a 1.8L horizontally-opposed engine, 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic transmission options, and rugged construction suitable for various driving conditions. This repair manual covers comprehensive maintenance procedures, troubleshooting guides, and technical specifications for the 1988 model year. Below are key sections for safety, technical specifications, maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, and repair instructions.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine Repair Procedures 4. Transmission Service 5. Brake System 6. Electrical System 7. Suspension & Steering 8. Fuel System 9. Cooling System 10. Troubleshooting Guide

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical details for the 1988 Subaru GL Wagon including engine, transmission, dimensions, and performance data.

Specification	Details
Engine Type	1.8L EA82 Horizontally-Opposed 4-cylinder
Horsepower	90 hp @ 5200 RPM
Torque	101 lb-ft @ 2800 RPM
Transmission	5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic
Drivetrain	Part-time 4WD with dual-range transfer case
Fuel System	Hitachi 2-barrel carburetor
Fuel Capacity	15.9 gallons
Curb Weight	2,425 lbs
Wheelbase	97.2 inches
Overall Length	173.8 inches

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals for optimal vehicle performance and longevity.

Oil Change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
Oil Filter: Replace with every oil change
Air Filter: Every 15,000 miles
Spark Plugs: Every 30,000 miles
Timing Belts: Every 60,000 miles
Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Brake Fluid: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Transmission Fluid: Every 30,000 miles

WARNING! Always use jack stands when working under vehicle. Wear safety glasses during maintenance procedures.

Engine Repair Procedures

Step-by-step instructions for common engine repairs and maintenance tasks.

Spark Plug Replacement: Remove ignition wires, use 5/8" spark plug socket, gap to 0.039-0.043 inches
Valve Adjustment: Cold engine only, set intake and exhaust to 0.010 inches
Timing Belt Replacement: Align timing marks, tension properly to prevent slippage
Carburetor Adjustment: Set idle speed to 750 RPM, mixture screw 2.5 turns out
Compression Test: All cylinders should read 142-156 psi, within 10% variation

CAUTION! Engine components can be hot. Allow engine to cool before performing repairs.

Transmission Service

Manual Transmission Fluid: 75W-90 GL-5, 3.7 quarts capacity
Automatic Transmission Fluid: Dexron II, 7.4 quarts total
Transfer Case Fluid: 75W-90 GL-5, 1.1 quarts
Front Differential: 75W-90 GL-5, 1.1 quarts
Rear Differential: 75W-90 GL-5, 1.1 quarts
Clutch Adjustment: Free play 0.4-0.8 inches at pedal
Shift Linkage: Adjust for precise gear engagement

Brake System

Brake system specifications and service procedures for front disc and rear drum brakes.

Front Brakes: Disc, 10.1 inch rotor, single piston caliper

Rear Brakes: Drum, 7.1 inch diameter

Brake Pad Replacement: Remove caliper bolts, compress piston, install new pads. Rotor Minimum Thickness: 0.866 inches. Drum Maximum Diameter: 7.165 inches. Brake Fluid: DOT 3. Master Cylinder: Tandem type with fluid level sensor.

Electrical System

Battery, charging system, and electrical component specifications.

Battery: 12V, 45Ah, negative ground
Alternator: 55 amp output
Starter: 1.4 kW reduction gear type
Fuse Box: Located under dashboard
Bulb Types: Headlight 60/55W, Brake 21W, Turn Signal 21W

Tip: Disconnect battery negative terminal before performing electrical work.

Suspension & Steering

Front and rear suspension components with service specifications.

Front Suspension: MacPherson strut with lower control arms
Rear Suspension: Rigid axle with coil springs and trailing arms
Steering Type: Rack and pinion, power assist optional
Wheel Alignment: Toe-in 0.08 ± 0.08 inches, Camber 0°20' ± 45'
Shock Absorbers: Replace in pairs, check for leaks and wear
Tire Size: 185/70R13, Pressure 29 PSI front and rear
Wheel Lug Torque: 58-72 ft-lbs

WARNING! Always replace suspension components in pairs. Use torque wrench for proper tightening.

Fuel System

Carburetor specifications and fuel delivery system components.

Cooling System

Radiator, thermostat, and cooling system maintenance procedures.

CAUTION! Never open radiator cap when engine is hot. Use proper coolant mixture to prevent freezing and corrosion.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Weak battery, faulty ignition	Check battery voltage, test spark, verify fuel delivery
Rough idle	Vacuum leak, dirty carburetor	Inspect vacuum hoses, clean carburetor jets
Overheating	Low coolant, stuck thermostat	Check coolant level, replace thermostat if necessary
Brake pull	Stuck caliper, worn pads	Inspect caliper movement, replace uneven pads
4WD not engaging	Vacuum system, transfer case	Check vacuum lines, inspect transfer case linkage

Technical Support: Contact Subaru dealership or certified mechanic for complex issues.

Parts Availability: Genuine Subaru parts recommended for optimal performance.