alexmaclennan

I have a 76P Legacy. For the last six months it misfires especially when pulling at low revs, or in too high a gear. Once the engine is over 3000 revs it is not noticed. Over the past four months the engine occasionally fails to start(perhaps 1:20 times). This can happen irrespective if the engine is cold or warm and irrespective of weather. The engine spins, when the ignition key is turned, but does not catch. Often waiting a few minutes or spraying ignition leads with WD40 seems to do the trick and the engine will then start normally. Once going it misfires but has never cut out. There is no local Subaru dealer. Any ideas?. My usual garage cannot help.

Jolly Green Monster 2

I would start with plugs and leads and if that doesn't cure it then it is probably the coil packs..

You say it has leads so it must be running the twin coil packs with wasted spark system I presume?

Had similar symptoms on my Impreza, but it had 4 coil packs one on each plug top and no ht leads.
Would miss fire when cold and damp, and miss fire under load in first gear..

You problem sounds electrical imho.

As to parts..

www.gradeasubaru.co.uk

Or one of these places might be able to help

Lots of links

JGM

BRM

I had a similar problem back when I used to run a Legacy , I found it to be the front right (as you look from the front of the car) coil pack , the plastic end under the rubber had cracked and the spark was earthing out on the head.

Hope this helps.

BRM

Richard Curtis

If the above does not work try inspecting your MAF sensor (located in the air inlet pipe just after the air filter).

The only time my legacy failed to start was when the sensor was crudded up with burnt oil.

If dirty, clean with brake cleaner or WD40 and a cotton bud, but be very careful, they are delicate bits of kit.

Rich