GEN Y HITCH BALL MOUNT

L

Louie R Magdaleno

Novice
My wife wanted a Subaru Forster Wilderness, but my major concern was that it had to be able to tow our ' 560 Rain Drop '... :rolleyes:

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I had to upgrade the Electrical Tow connector to a ' 7 Pin/7 Way '.

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BRAKE CONTROLLER ATTACHED - INSERTED.
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I ordered ' GEN-Y Hitch ' from AMAZON
GEN-Y Hitch | Ball Mount | Fits 2" Receiver | 1" Ball-Shank | Rated for 7,000 LBS Towing | Maximum Tongue Weight of 700 LBS

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https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WK7LBLJ/?tag=bcusa00-20

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My 2023 - Subaru Forester Wilderness hooked up to the ' 2009 - 560 Raindrop '.
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EDIT
' SUBARU BOXER® Engine and Revised Drivetrain Gearing
Along with the time-tested reliability of its direct-injection SUBARU BOXER engine, the Forester Wilderness drivetrain features re-tuned gearing with revised ratios for improved low-speed climbing – up to a 40 percent grade. You can bring along even more gear and adventure equipment with an upgraded towing capacity of up to 3,000 pounds....? :rolleyes:"

I was very concerned that the Gen Y Ball Hitch wouldn't be level, with the Raindrop Tongue Hitch.... ?
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However, it's a near-perfect fit..:)
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I drove a few miles on the city streets ( approx 20 miles ) to get a feel of both the 'Subaru's Towing ' capabilities, along with how the Gen Y Hitch would be affected and react to stops & accelerations.

IMH- Conclusions.. The Gen Y Hitch was a bit smoother riding & worth the upgraded costs $$ ... :)

I've towed my 560 with a conventional type of Tow Ball Hitch, using an ' Xterra & Yukon ' in the past.

560 Ultra Trips.
L

Post in thread '560 Ultra Trips'

Hey all, here's a few more winter photots:
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First night snow @ Lake Powell

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@ Grand Canyon camp grounds. I heard a rumor that it was a record setting cold night,for that time of year.
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Photos of Road trip to Grand Canyon...
 
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Subaru's used to be the tow vehicle of choice, I'm not 100% sure is today. But you should be fine as long as you are below the weight limits of the tow vehicle.

The only problems I am aware of are the new gearless transmissions --- the CVT transmission are not as good as they used to be. This becomes more apparent as you tow, and even drive them. The way these work is that there are two cones, and a 'wear pattern' sets in --- the belt then wants to ride in that groove making shifting rough if not outright impossible.

The perpetual crudification (cleaned up, I use another word privately) of design -- the race to the bottom in the name of efficiency is a problem.

Great pictures! Makes me want to go somehwere :D I'm still kicking myself that it was 85 degrees a week ago - and now its in the low 40's. Not 100% sure why I am here :D Oh, I know...my wife, dog, cats, are all here at home.
 
Sweeney said:
Subaru's used to be the tow vehicle of choice, I'm not 100% sure is today. But you should be fine as long as you are below the weight limits of the tow vehicle.

The only problems I am aware of are the new gearless transmissions --- the CVT transmission are not as good as they used to be. This becomes more apparent as you tow, and even drive them. The way these work is that there are two cones, and a 'wear pattern' sets in --- the belt then wants to ride in that groove making shifting rough if not outright impossible.

The perpetual crudification (cleaned up, I use another word privately) of design -- the race to the bottom in the name of efficiency is a problem.

Great pictures! Makes me want to go somehwere :D I'm still kicking myself that it was 85 degrees a week ago - and now its in the low 40's. Not 100% sure why I am here :D Oh, I know...my wife, dog, cats, are all here at home.
Click to expand...

I never doubted the ' Subaru ' could/would handle ' LIGHT TOWING " on flat roadways & ' Cooler Ambient Temperatures. ' ( 80- 90 degrees ).


My favorite go toooo trips are in the ' High Sierra's CA ', during the Summer months.
View attachment 1743526307659.png

After test-driving the ' Subaru Forester Wilderness' ( NON-TURBO ENGINE ) for the past two years.

1. Travel early in the morning to avoid the High Summer afternoon Ambient Temperatures.

2. Follow the ' OWNERS MANUAL RECOMMENDATIONS' to the letter.

EXAMPLE: 2023 SUBARU's OWNERS MANUAL: Page # 458
View attachment 1743527113182.png
QUOTE: ".... HOWEVER, IN HOT WEATHER, OIL OF A HIGHER VISCOSITY IS REQUIRED TO PROPERLY LUBRICATE THE ENGINE '.. :oops:

I live in a Desert environment ( Palmdale, CA : Summer; 100 - 120 + Degrees ) & will be using a Higher Viscosity Synthetic Motor Oil, to properly lubricate & protect the engine, while Towing...;)

Everyday Driving; 5W-30 / Towing; 5W-40.

Subaru USA, along with other Vehicle manufacturer, are trying to squeeze out a few extra ' MPG ' to meet US EPA Standards :oops: ( 0W-20 Oil & lighter ) Versus, protecting your engine for long - term durability. :confused:

Hopefully, the photos I provided were posted ..?

I've also tried to explain to the wifey.. We no longer have the extra room or Horsepower the ' GMC YUKON ' had.. o_O
I'll be traveling with a much lighter load, using the ' Subaru '.

My Subaru started to overheat on a recent trip ( 5W-40 Oil ) traveling over the ' CA TEJON PASS '.

Fully Loaded for a Tent Camping Trip.
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Jul - 2024
Wifey & I decided on a "4-day Camping Trip " ( 6 hr one way Drive ).
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On the way home, mid-day Summer heat ( Ambient 91+ degrees ).
The Oil Temp were @ 240 + Degrees ( 5W-40 Oil ).

I immediately switched into the " Slow Lane " & decided to pull over @ the next offramp exit, which was the " FORT TEJON STATE PARK " entrance.
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I had the Subaru serviced last week: 24 Month / 24000 Miles Scheduled Service & Oil - Oil Filter Change.
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I'll change the ' Oil ( 5W-40 ) & Filter ' before my next Summer Trip ( July ? - Sept ? ) to the Ca Beaches : Ventura / Santa Barbara ?

Again, hopefully, the photos will be posted...?
 

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We've never been in 120 temps --- that is a place I would be running from not too :D

We added a transmission cooler to our (granted, it is a 2012 H6) and never have had an problems. As it is aging, she has developed a few "personality traits" but I'd still dirve her cross country tomorrow. Towing? probably -- but I keep my speeds well below what most people west of Illinois would consider crazy slow. 65 is my comfort zone, and I keep it there.

Alas, they don't make them like that any more :( --- sickening.
 
Louie R Magdaleno said:
I never doubted the ' Subaru ' could/would handle ' LIGHT TOWING " on flat roadways & ' Cooler Ambient Temperatures. ' ( 80- 90 degrees ).


My favorite go toooo trips are in the ' High Sierra's CA ', during the Summer months.
View attachment 11498

After test-driving the ' Subaru Forester ' for the past two years.

1. Travel early in the morning to avoid the High Summer afternoon Ambient Temperatures.

2. Follow the ' OWNERS MANUAL RECOMMENDATIONS' to the letter.

EXAMPLE: 2023 SUBARU's OWNERS MANUAL: Page # 458
View attachment 11500
QUOTE: ".... HOWEVER, IN HOT WEATHER, OIL OF A HIGHER VISCOSITY IS REQUIRED TO PROPERLY LUBRICATE THE ENGINE '.. :oops:

I live in a Desert environment ( Summer: 100 - 120 + Degrees ) & will be using a Higher Viscosity Synthetic Motor Oil, to properly lubricate & protect the engine, while Towing...;)

Everyday Driving; 5W-30 / Towing; 5W-40.

Subaru USA, along with other Vehicle manufacturer, are trying to squeeze out a few extra ' MPG ' to meet US EPA Standards ( 0W-20 Oil & lighter ) Versus, protecting your engine for long - term durability. :confused:

Hopefully, the photos I provided were posted ..?

I've also tried to explain to the wifey.. We no longer have the extra room or Horsepower the ' GMC Tahoe ' had.. o_O
I'll be traveling with a much lighter load, using the ' Subaru '.

My Subaru started to overheat on a recent trip ( 5W-40 Oil ) traveling over the ' CA TEJON PASS '.

Fully Loaded for a Tent Camping Trip.
View attachment 11501

Jul - 2024
Wifey & I decided on a "4-day Camping Trip " ( 6 hr one way Drive ).
View attachment 11502
View attachment 11504


On the way home, mid-day Summer heat. The Oil Temp were @ 240 + Degrees ( 5W-40 Oil ).

I immediately switched into the " Slow Lane " & decided to pull over @ the next offramp exit, which was the " FORT TEJON STATE PARK " entrance.
View attachment 11503

I had the Subaru serviced last week: 24 Month / 24000 Miles Scheduled Service & Oil - Oil Filter Change.
View attachment 11505

I'll change the ' Oil ( 5W-40 ) & Filter ' before my next Summer Trip ( July ? - Sept ? ) to the Ca Beaches : Ventura / Santa Barbara ?

Again, hopefully, the photos will be posted...?
Click to expand...
Great photos and hot weather info, Louie!
 
Both wifey & I enjoy vacationing in much ' Cooler & Greener ' locations.

Unfortunately, we have to pass through Mountain Roads & in Hot weather conditions: I.E.: CA Mojave Desert / Arizona Desert / Nevada Desert ( Las Vegas ) Utah Desert: Average Summer Air Temps: Triple Digits 100 - 120 + degrees.

There is no way around our travel routes to reach our vacation destinations: West Coast Beaches, High Sierra's, CA.

Mammoth Lakes... :)
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L

Thread '560 Ultra Trips'

Hey everyone,

I just reviewed the " Camp-Inn " home page & noticed this new forum. I've already posted a few photos of my new ( 2009 )560 Ultra Trips on another forum. But this is the " Camp-Inn Forum " , so here we go !
IMG_0111_edited-1.jpg

Grand Canyon
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Setting up Camp for the night.
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Wallymart Heater...

I'll have to keep my driving speeds ' 50 - 55 MPH ' ( Posted Speed Limits Towing ), or under, depending on the Mountain Grades..?

Please let me know ' IF ' all of the photo attachments open ..?

P.S.: The ' SUBARU ' was my Wifeys choice. I'mmmma just trying to make it work... :rolleyes:
 
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Here's a place I would like to visit in ' Early Spring ' ( 75-80 degrees ).

FURNACE CREEK - The Hottest Town On Earth - Why Do 136 People Live Here?​


I wouldn't want to visit or drive-thru in the winter, due to the yearly Desert ' FLASH FLOODS '... o_O

Death Valley National Park undergoing $6 million in repairs after Tropical Storm Hilary​

​

​

​

 
Louie R Magdaleno said:
Both wifey & I enjoy vacationing in much ' Cooler & Greener ' locations.

Unfortunately, we have to pass through Mountain Roads & in Hot weather conditions: I.E.: CA Mojave Desert / Arizona Desert / Nevada Desert ( Las Vegas ) Utah Desert: Average Summer Air Temps: Triple Digits 100 - 120 + degrees.

There is no way around our travel routes to reach our vacation destinations: West Coast Beaches, High Sierra's, CA.

Mammoth Lakes... :)
View attachment 11507

View attachment 11508
L

Thread '560 Ultra Trips'

Hey everyone,

I just reviewed the " Camp-Inn " home page & noticed this new forum. I've already posted a few photos of my new ( 2009 )560 Ultra Trips on another forum. But this is the " Camp-Inn Forum " , so here we go !
IMG_0111_edited-1.jpg

Grand Canyon
IMG_0119_edited-2.jpg

Setting up Camp for the night.
IMG_0114_edited-1.jpg

IMG_0115_edited-1.jpg

Wallymart Heater...

I'll have to keep my driving speeds ' 50 - 55 MPH ' ( Posted Speed Limits Towing ), or under, depending on the Mountain Grades..?

Please let me know ' IF ' all of the photo attachments open ..?

P.S.: The ' SUBARU ' was my Wifeys choice. I'mmmma just trying to make it work... :rolleyes:
Click to expand...

Some of those photos are a little too cool :) Photos look fine to me.
 
Sweeney said:
Some of those photos are a little too cool :) Photos look fine to me.
Click to expand...

Thanks for the info.;)
I can see the photos posted on ' MY ' computer screen, But after posting ( Copy & Paste ), they convert into ' View Attachment and Numbers jpeg....:oops:

Today's Freeway - High-Speed Driving Tests.

I had to stop by the ' Trailer Repair Shop ' to have the Electrical Technician assist me with downloading the ' Brake Controller APP ' onto my iPhone.

That provided an opportunity to test drive the ' Subaru - Trailer ' combo on the Freeway.

I'm trying a different method to post photos: Insert Image - DropBox.
View attachment IMG_4571.jpeg

Checking the Subaru's side Mirrors rear Viewpoint.
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They both have a clear, unobstructed View for Lane Changing..

Northbound Antelope Valley Freeway: Interstate 14
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I drove approx 80 roundtrip miles without any unusual or unsafe Trailer Swaying - Fishtailing, or Trailer Tongue bouncing at Freeway Speeds of 50 - 60 MPH.

IMH- Conclusions. The ' GEN-Y HITCH ' did an excellent job handling & smoothing out the street-highway bumps & potholes.

My next road test will be Towing up the ' Interstate 5 Freeway, Grapevine portion, which will put an uphill load on the ' Subaru' ...o_O

en.wikipedia.org

Grapevine, California - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org en.wikipedia.org

I had a monthly subscription to ' Trailer Boats Magazine '. They conducted many of their ' Boat & Trailer Tow Testing ' on the same route: Castaic ( Start ) - Northbound 5 Freeway.

HMMMM. The Photo Drop Box didn't work out as planned. :oops:
View attachment IMG_4579.jpeg
 
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For The Record:

Wifey ' LOVES ' her Subaru.. I can't complain about anything other than the slightly exaggerated ' TOWING PAYLOAD RATINGS '.....?

QUOTE:
" I never doubted the ' Subaru ' could/would handle ' LIGHT TOWING " on flat roadway(s) & ' Cooler Ambient Temperatures ' ( 80- 90 degrees ). "

I've looked into getting a ' CVT Transmission Cooler Upgrade ', but it's a bit pricey $$$ ( Parts & Labor ) for what might prove to be a marginal improvement for a ' CVT ' ... ?

And I can't ( ??? ) alter anything until after the ' Factory Warranty ' has expired.??

I had Transmission Coolers installed in my ' Nissan Xterra & GMC YUKON ' ( Automatic Transmission ).

The Transmission temperatures were factually lower ( TEMP GAUGES ) when Towing during hot Summer Months. In particular, when I'm Towing ' UPHILL MOUNTAIN GRADES '..
I.E.: Xterra Auxiliar - Aftermarket Gauges.
View attachment 1743795140882.png

P.S.: My neighbor ran a small ' Subaru Repair Shop ' but closed it down due to slow business.

He now works out of his home garage.

I've asked him about adding a ' CVT COOLER UPGRADE ' to my Forester..?

He didn't think it was worth the extra cost... o_O

EDIT:
I'm reluctant to post/provide the below You Tube Video, since it features a ' SUBARU ' using a different ' Travel Trailer '.

However, anyone interested can look up the review on You Tube.

Subaru Says The New Outback Wilderness Is Their Best Off-Roader Ever...But Does It TOW?​



EDIT:
I didn't experience any ' SWAY OR JITTERY ' movements the above test driver experienced.

My conclusions are: The ' Gen-Y Hitch ' helps control & dampen the Trailer movements. ;)
 
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Hmmm, just a thought..

' IF ' Subaru was serious about its advertised ' TOW RATINGS '..? They should have added a digital ' Temp Gauge ' as they did for the ' Water / Oil Temps ' , along with a guideline range for a ' CVT : Cold - HOT ' display.

An example of the Subaru's digital Display. I keep this display setting on to monitor the Engines ' Water & Oil ' while Traveling.
View attachment 1744169910813.png

Subaru could have easily used the ( USELESS ) ' Average MPH Speed ' display space , for a more practical function, I.E., ' CVT TEMPERATURE ' Gauge. o_O
View attachment 1744170741767.png
 
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Louie R Magdaleno said:
Thanks for the info.;)
I can see the photos posted on ' MY ' computer screen, But after posting ( Copy & Paste ), they convert into ' View Attachment and Numbers jpeg....:oops:

Today's Freeway - High-Speed Driving Tests.

I had to stop by the ' Trailer Repair Shop ' to have the Electrical Technician assist me with downloading the ' Brake Controller APP ' onto my iPhone.

That provided an opportunity to test drive the ' Subaru - Trailer ' combo on the Freeway.

I'm trying a different method to post photos: Insert Image - DropBox.
View attachment 11509

Checking the Subaru's side Mirrors rear Viewpoint.
View attachment 11510

View attachment 11511
They both have a clear, unobstructed View for Lane Changing..

Northbound Antelope Valley Freeway: Interstate 14
View attachment 11512

View attachment 11513
I drove approx 80 roundtrip miles without any unusual or unsafe Trailer Swaying - Fishtailing, or Trailer Tongue bouncing at Freeway Speeds of 50 - 60 MPH.

IMH- Conclusions. The ' GEN-Y HITCH ' did an excellent job handling & smoothing out the street-highway bumps & potholes.

My next road test will be Towing up the ' Interstate 5 Freeway, Grapevine portion, which will put an uphill load on the ' Subaru' ...o_O

en.wikipedia.org

Grapevine, California - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org en.wikipedia.org

I had a monthly subscription to ' Trailer Boats Magazine '. They conducted many of their ' Boat & Trailer Tow Testing ' on the same route: Castaic ( Start ) - Northbound 5 Freeway.

HMMMM. The Photo Drop Box didn't work out as planned. :oops:
View attachment 11514
Click to expand...
Sorry, I didn't dig deeper into your question about photos not appearing line, I do not know why you can paste the image and it will show in the editor but not render to viewers the same way.

If you go into the media library, and add the image to your library there -- after you upload it, in the lower right hand corner you'll see a "bb" code....insert that text into your message it when the forum display the message to the reader, the image will be present. If you click in your gallery below each photo you'll see a grey box, if you click that box you'll get the image details

Take a look at this link...I tried to capture it in a few easy steps.
 
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Just sharing information on a type of ' CVT Cooler Upgrade ', I might consider in the future...?

2023 Subaru Forester Transmission Cooler​

location_tn.jpg

Select the correct transmission cooler by determining where there is enough space to mount it. The diagram on the left numbers the best three positions to mount the transmission cooler in order. Transmission coolers are more efficient when they receive maximum air flow. At Position 1, the transmission cooler is 100% efficient. Position 2, between the air conditioning condenser and radiator, is 75% efficient while Position 3, between the radiator and fan, is only 60% efficient. If positions 2 or 3 are used, a larger transmission cooler will be needed to compensate for the loss of cooling power. If this is the case, choose a transmission cooler that is one or two sizes larger.

Tech Tips: Transmission fluid cannot be over-cooled, but it is critical in extreme cold conditions to allow the vehicle to warm up before driving.

2023 Subaru Forester Transmission Cooler | etrailer.com

Ready to upgrade your 2023 Subaru Forester? Find the best Transmission Cooler at etrailer.com.
www.etrailer.com www.etrailer.com

Here's some additional information on a ' CVT Cooler upgrade ' that starts at the ' 7:08 Minute ' mark: The Massive Transmission Cooler

Towing a Uhaul Trailer with a Subaru Crosstrek Sport​

EDIT.
Installing a CVT Cooler Thermostat in a Subaru Crosstrek


P.S.
I highly recommend servicing your Engine Oil & CVT Fluid ' MORE FREQUENTLY ' than what's recommended under the Owner's Manual's normal driving conditions.

Towing should be considered a ' Severe Driving Condition '.

I change the motor oil every ' 3,500 Miles ' ( 5w-30 ) and will use a thicker Viscosity Synthetic Oil, 5w-40, for Towing.
 
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Louie R Magdaleno said:
Just sharing information on a type of ' CVT Cooler Upgrade ', I might consider in the future...?

2023 Subaru Forester Transmission Cooler​

location_tn.jpg

Select the correct transmission cooler by determining where there is enough space to mount it. The diagram on the left numbers the best three positions to mount the transmission cooler in order. Transmission coolers are more efficient when they receive maximum air flow. At Position 1, the transmission cooler is 100% efficient. Position 2, between the air conditioning condenser and radiator, is 75% efficient while Position 3, between the radiator and fan, is only 60% efficient. If positions 2 or 3 are used, a larger transmission cooler will be needed to compensate for the loss of cooling power. If this is the case, choose a transmission cooler that is one or two sizes larger.

Tech Tips: Transmission fluid cannot be over-cooled, but it is critical in extreme cold conditions to allow the vehicle to warm up before driving.

2023 Subaru Forester Transmission Cooler | etrailer.com

Ready to upgrade your 2023 Subaru Forester? Find the best Transmission Cooler at etrailer.com.
www.etrailer.com www.etrailer.com

Here's some additional information on a ' CVT Cooler upgrade ' that starts at the ' 7:08 Minute ' mark: The Massive Transmission Cooler

Towing a Uhaul Trailer with a Subaru Crosstrek Sport​

EDIT.
Installing a CVT Cooler Thermostat in a Subaru Crosstrek


P.S.
I highly recommend servicing your Engine Oil & CVT Fluid ' MORE FREQUENTLY ' than what's recommended under the Owner's Manual's normal driving conditions.

Towing should be considered a ' Severe Driving Condition '.

I change the motor oil every ' 3,500 Miles ' ( 5w-30 ) and will use a thicker Viscosity Synthetic Oil, 5w-40, for Towing.
Click to expand...
Solid advice! No idea on the trans cooler add on but its a great idea. Have upgraded my 2017 VW Alltrack with bigger intercooler for heavy hot towing, and APR1 tune, for extra oomph to get over the high passes.
Its a six speed manual chosen on purpose then for simplicity and to avoid past concerns towing with CVTs. Its geared a bit high, but works in crawl mode in 1st at 3-4 moh at 800-1000 rom. Its not 4x4, never ginna be and you can burn a clutch easy by feathering too much in too low gear needed situations to get it moving...ask me how I know.

And a clutch upgrade since for heavy use/durability.

So, there are no
Perfect CUVs for towing, just better choices for your needs, and I like Subaru for the big community of people who mod them and makers of off-road accessories. Name escapes me RN but there is a Canuck outfit thats been making kewl stuff for Subis, RAVs, and CRVs to go soft-roading (or look like a mall ORV it) in AWD.

I have a freakishly long back, couldnt fit in 2015/16 Outbacks or I'd have bot it just based on reviews then.
Really like the new WildPeak models that look solid for 95% of any possible use towing CIs.
Bottomline;
If you need to go where jeeps or tacos go, then get one of those...otherwise AWD and plus sized AT tires are all you really need, if you know how to drive a line on ruts, and know your limitations...and stay out of desert gravel washes...;)
 
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Just an ' FYI ' and a clarification...
My ' 2023 Forester Wilderness ', does have a small ' Factory Installed Radiator ' Type of Cooler on the Driver's side, placed in front of the ' Water - Fluid Radiator '.

PHOTO EXAMPLES: Factory Installed Radiator CVT Cooler on the driver's side in front of the Water Radiator.
View attachment 1744749753948.png
Approx 5 inches x 12 inches long.

When I use the terminology of a " CVT COOLER UPGRADE '. I'm referring to a ' LARGER VOLUME: CVT OIL RADIATOR ' type of cooler.

EXAMPLE UPGRADE: Black Larger Radiator on the Left side of the photo / Factory CVT Cooler on the Right.
View attachment 1744749821197.png

I still can't figure out how to properly post photos..:confused:

Here's the link in case the photos don't open...?
 
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Louie R Magdaleno said:
Another ' CVT COOLER ' example, this one is ' FORESTER ' specific.

Subaru Forester CVT Cooler How To​
Click to expand...

One thing to be aware of with CVT transmissions...now, if yours is using a planetary gear arrangement (hybrid drive on toyota) then this isn't a problem....but the "cone" varieties, that subaru uses (see this video) there is a design flaw you need to be aware of. I do not know how increasing the fluid change will impact this, it certainly can not hurt, and absolutely a cooler is a great idea.

What happens is that the transmission spends most of its time with the belt at its extreme as you travel...think your highway gear. This causes the belt to spend much of its time at that single spot. Over time, it wears that spot more than the rest of the cones. THe effect of this, is it makes the belt want to stay in that valley that has been created miles.

I have heard the number 175000 batered about -- I don' know if that istrue or not, but at that point its time to either pull out your savings to rebuild it or to sell it...which (if you ask me) is a bit of a moral dilemma since you are sending a problem down the road to an unsuspecting buyer.

This problem impacts all CVT transmissions that I am aware of...but this thread is focusing on my much beloved brand...Subaru. Oh, if they only still built a H6 and a old-school transmission!!
 
I'm just sharing info...

I stopped by my local ' OIL STOP " Monday ( 4-13-2025 ) to have the Subaru's ' CVT Fluid " & both Front & Rear Differential Fluids Drained & Re-Filled.
View attachment IMG_4707 - Copy.jpeg

View attachment IMG_4709 - Copy.jpeg
ODOMETER MILES: 16558

I requested a visual sample of the " Old vs New " Fluids.
View attachment IMG_4710.jpg
BOTTOM: Lft-Rt: Old Subaru Rear Diff Fluid / Old Subaru CVT Fluid / Old Subaru Front Diff Fluid ( VERY DARK ).

I inquired on the color difference between the ' Green Subaru CVT Fluid ' vs the Duramax almost Clear Color.

The Service Manager stated it all depends on the particular brands. Duramax has a slight yellow tint, but it meets or exceeds all ' CVT ' requirements.

DURAMAX CVT FLUID INFO:

Based on both the ' Front & Rear Differential ' DARK discoloration...:33:
I'll most likely have them both drained & changed every Year. :3:
View attachment IMG_4719 - Copy.jpeg

Hmmmm, How does anyone easily & or routinely check the condition of their ' Subaru's CVT FLUID or DIFFERENTIAL FLUID '...??

When I return to ' Oil Stop ' for a Summer ( Roadtrips & Towing ) ' Oil-Filter Change ' ( 5w-40 ).

I'll have them double-check the Fluid levels ( CVT & Both Differentials ) & might request another visual sample..;)

The ' SUBARU ' was my ' WIFES ' choice...:rolleyes:

I didn't have any major issues with ' TOWING ' in the past, using my ' Nissan Xterra ( 6 Cylinder ) & GMC Yukon ( 8 Cylinder ).

I'm currently making every reasonable effort, toooo get the ' Subaru ' safely & reliably outfitted for Towing ' MY ' Raindrop. :cool:

Just an afterthought..
I had the Subaru serviced on March 29, 2025: 24 Month / 24000 Miles Scheduled Service & Oil - Oil Filter Change. ": ODOMETER MILAGE: 16178

I'm guessing the ' SUBARU's DEALERSHIP MECHANICS ', didn't bother to 'CHECK ' the ' CVT - DEFERENTIAL FLUIDS ' levels or Fluid Condition ??

The ' FRONT DIFFERENTIAL ' very dark black color, appears to be a problem waiting to happen... :eek:

It's a good thing .. I don't follow Subaru's Owners Manuals, long & Extended Service Intervals ( Oils & Fluids )


Fair Warning ' SPICY LANGUAGE ' used..o_O

How Subaru slowly lost the plot | Auto Expert John Cadogan​


Posted 16 hours ago...
 

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Louie R Magdaleno said:
I'm just sharing info...

I stopped by my local ' OIL STOP " Monday ( 4-13-2025 ) to have the Subaru's ' CVT Fluid " & both Front & Rear Differential Fluids Drained & Re-Filled.
View attachment 11596

View attachment 11597
ODOMETER MILES: 16558

I requested a visual sample of the " Old vs New " Fluids.
View attachment 11598
BOTTOM: Lft-Rt: Old Subaru Rear Diff Fluid / Old Subaru CVT Fluid / Old Subaru Front Diff Fluid ( VERY DARK ).

I inquired on the color difference between the ' Green Subaru CVT Fluid ' vs the Duramax almost Clear Color.

The Service Manager stated it all depends on the particular brands. Duramax has a slight yellow tint, but it meets or exceeds all ' CVT ' requirements.

DURAMAX CVT FLUID INFO:

Based on both the ' Front & Rear Differential ' DARK discoloration...:33:
I'll most likely have them both drained & changed every Year. :3:
View attachment 11599

Hmmmm, How does anyone easily & or routinely check the condition of their ' Subaru's CVT FLUID or DIFFERENTIAL FLUID '...??

When I return to ' Oil Stop ' for a Summer ( Roadtrips & Towing ) ' Oil-Filter Change ' ( 5w-40 ).

I'll have them double-check the Fluid levels ( CVT & Both Differentials ) & might request another visual sample..;)

The ' SUBARU ' was my ' WIFES ' choice...:rolleyes:

I didn't have any major issues with ' TOWING ' in the past, using my ' Nissan Xterra ( 6 Cylinder ) & GMC Yukon ( 8 Cylinder ).

I'm currently making every reasonable effort, toooo get the ' Subaru ' safely & reliably outfitted for Towing ' MY ' Raindrop. :cool:

Just an afterthought..
I had the Subaru serviced on March 29, 2025: 24 Month / 24000 Miles Scheduled Service & Oil - Oil Filter Change. ": ODOMETER MILAGE: 16178

I'm guessing the ' SUBARU's DEALERSHIP MECHANICS ', didn't bother to 'CHECK ' the ' CVT - DEFERENTIAL FLUIDS ' levels or Fluid Condition ??

The ' FRONT DIFFERENTIAL ' very dark black color, appears to be a problem waiting to happen... :eek:

It's a good thing .. I don't follow Subaru's Owners Manuals, long & Extended Service Intervals ( Oils & Fluids )


Fair Warning ' SPICY LANGUAGE ' used..o_O

How Subaru slowly lost the plot | Auto Expert John Cadogan​


Posted 16 hours ago...
Click to expand...


If you want to get really serious about it, and its best to do this over time --- get a baseline when the car is new then do your analysis as necessary...

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I have used them and they are fast, and give a great report. Taking the sample is SUPER easy and not at all messy, if you have a dipstick. Just run a plastic tube down and the pump siphons the fluid right from the case. Things like transfer cases and differentials are 'sealed' -- so you have to pull a fill plug to get to it...not terrible, but not as easy either.
 
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