July 2018 Update #4: Engine Install

Installed engine mounts
Connected a couple more vacuum/coolant lines. Still 2 or 3 more to finish like the boost control solenoid.
Alternator partially installed, but I seem to have left the power steering bracket that’s used to tension it in Michigan…hopefully will resolve that soon.
Installed the engine into the chassis!

I probably could’ve waited to do this until I had the accessories installed, but there’s enough room to work on it in the car and this weekend worked for me to borrow my college club’s engine hoist.

I ordered female front OEM Subaru axles so that I have the right CVs for my OBX limited slip diff. I bought two used ones for $85 each. There are cheaper options out there but I didn’t want to have the issue of the CV splines not being the same as OEM and therefore not working with FFR’s axle.
Rear suspension is otherwise just waiting on the axle and transmission to be installed.

Rebuilt my OBX limited slip diff. I bought the rebuild kit a while ago for $35 that included new case bolts and internal spring washers specifically for OBX diffs. Getting this differential over a name brand Quaife/Cusco unit is a bit of a gamble on my part, but considering I spent less than $500 for the diff, rebuild kit, transmission seals, and new axles it’s a gamble that may pay off if it works well. The name brands are over $1000 for the diff alone.
I did find the original OBX spring washers to be fairly poor quality, but the bolts were installed fine. It would definitely recommend rebuilding OBX units considering the low cost of it.

Got the last front end suspension component installed.
As many on the forum have noted, the fitment of the swaybar is extremely tight on the passenger side. I’m hoping I don’t have any clearance issues. I found it strange that the FFR manual did not include any advice on how to setup the sway bar beside “install it”. Maybe I have it set right, maybe I don’t?