96 Subaru Legacy Outback running problems?

[Joe69]

96 Subaru Legacy Outback 120k miles, with Automatic transmission.
 Recently it has developed a problem that feels as the trans was put in neutral while driving. Let's say you are driving and you are stepping on the gas and the car is moving but suddenly you feel as if the car was put in neutral for a few seconds. and even if you step the gas pedal all the way to the floor, the car doesn't respond the Rpm stays the same or maybe even goes lower.
  Some times when you are already driving and you step on the gas, it takes a couple seconds before you feel the engine responds.
  Today while driving the engine just shut off completely and I even tried to start the car for 15 seconds but nothing it just kept on cranking. I waited 5 minutes and then the car started and drove it home with no problem.
 I changed the fuel pump last year but I didn't install a new strainer, I used the old one. I don't know if this has anything to do with this problem.  I will get a new strainer and change it, to see if this will help.
At this point any ideas will be appreciated!, thanks  Joe
 
 

[opelgt]

Next time it quits and won't restart right away, check for spark at a plug wire. No spark = ignition or computer/sensor related problem. Spark = fuel problem(usually).

[jasonn20]

Is your Check Engine light on ??  There are a number number of things it can be so a code would help.  I would check for vacuum leaks and  your battery connections

[Joe69]

Thanks for all replies,  I just changed the fuel pump and the car runs excellent.   the old new pump only lasted 1 year!