in regards the trannie cooler, i can't say there is a "best" one. the important thing is to have one put in. they are readily available on the net and in trannie shops and auto supply places. there is an subaru external filter which should be on your car (under the battery as i recall). subaru sells a replacement cartridge for it. i suggest you get a replacement cartridge and have it put i when you do the trannie rebuild. also, if possible carry a box of wine in the trunk, just in case ron shows up near your town.