Cookie Addict wrote:...290 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm and 305 HP... I did have to have my clutch replaced...
Ahh there's a very good reason that this is the case, and you paid extra for it.
The drivetrain is all about getting power to the wheels. When you have AWD, you have very little slip at the wheels. Slipping tires act like a "fuse" in an electrical system, they break loose before something else does. AWD and grippy tires is like putting a higher voltage fuse in the system. It doesn't blow as easily, but you increase the chances of frying something else. Good traction wears mechanical components. It's a common myth that "burning rubber" is bad for the drivetrain, it's not as hard on the componenets as gripping is.
Case in point:
I have 3600lb rwd car, 300lbft at the wheels.
On street tires, I can't drag race, there's no grip. It will burn the tires in 3rd gear. Slippy slippy slippy.
If I put drag radials on it, and I actually get good grip off the line... my half shafts snap. Like friggin clockwork, every time. So, I stay on road courses and avoid drag strips.
When your car is off warrantee, stop going to the dealership. I know there are a few Subaru Specialty shops in Ohio, maybe there's some out your way. Always go with the nerds.
Good to see the Subbie thread is still alive!
P.S. I've never broken a sway bar, and god knows I've tried. I would say that your oversized load had more to do with it. If the bar was heavily permiated by rust it would be more prone to fail. you'll probably notices that your off-road performance is better without it, and straight-line driving is unaffected. It gives you turning stability, nothing else.
Replacign all 4 tires; there is logic behind that depending on what differential you have.
When one wheel turns faster than another, it engages your LSD (should you have one). If one is constantly in this state, than your traction systems are constantly in use, and they will wear faster.
To stay on the cheap, you might be able to find a shop that will shave your new tire for you. Get a single new $50 crap tire and shave it to match the rest, then wait for the whole set to wear down and replace them all.