Thanks everyone. Yep, boobs working on the car - they eventually
wanted to replace the starter - FOR $410!!

With some help from the list archives, I replaced the contacts in the
starter solenoid - One was nearly worn through and they were both
corroded. Cost $10 and took about a half hour. Worked like a charm.

Thanks again,
Jeff

Hi all,
I have a 2000 outback, 2.5L. For the past month or so its had a
problem getting steadily worse - first thing in the morning when I
turn the key it only makes a "click" - the starter doesn't turn at
all. After about 10 key turns the starter finally engages, it starts
fine, and is usually fine the rest of the day. The battery voltage is
good.

Its in the shop now, and the guy is telling me he thinks it is the
fuel pump. Is that possible? Would a lack of fuel pressure disengage
the starter? My experience with cars is with older volkswagens where
the starter and fuel pump circuits are independent - a bad fuel pump
would still let the starter turn.

Thanks for any help.

cheers,
Jeff