Thanks ccrien, I am fairly certain that the current STi quick rack is hydraulic, rather than electric. Oddly enough, before you posted, I had decided to seek a second opinion and the car will go to ex. Subaru dealership, Quenbys of Baldock. They still have two of their original Subaru technicians, who have been with the firm for many years and they still service and repair loyal Subaru owners' cars.