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Asked: May 17, 2008 - 03:10 PM

Status: Closed

About my 98 Subaru Legacy Outback engine replacememt

Thank you for all of your advice. The car is in beautiful shape besides the engine, so I think I am going to take your advice and look for another 2.5 engine that has had the head gaskets replaced. My only other question is, should I only be looking for a 98 engine, or were there other years of outbacks with the same 2.5 that would be put in just as easy? Thanks again

In Makes & Models > Subaru > Outback
In Maintenance & Repair > Engine > Swap
3 answers - 79 days ago

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elemelin

Date: May 17, 2008
Time: 10:21 PM

hi this is ed i work at a quick lube i have a variance of automotive technology but with the volume of cars that i see a ot of them are subarus there is a lot of years that take the 2.5l with different models including the same engine size so all you have to do is look around try 98 - 04 good engines

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mr_shiftright

Date: May 18, 2008
Time: 05:41 PM

I think any competent Subaru mechanic could make 2.5 engines from other years work just fine, but there will no doubt be some differences that need to be addressed. Best thing might be to use all your old engines accessories and even cylinder heads (rebuilt of course) and just install a new "short block". That way you don't have to mess with wiring and computer issues jumping from year to year.

Here's an example of costs, etc. for short blocks:

http://www.subaruparts.com/catalog/?section=710

I notice that they seem to break the 2.5 blocks into two types: 96-98 and 98-99. That tells me that cylinder heads might be different.



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wtdash

Date: Jun 02, 2008
Time: 06:55 PM

The '96-98 2.5 will work. There are slight differences in power and types of lifters on the '96 Outback model.

Also, the '98 Forester 2.5 and Impreza 2.5 RS are options.

I'd not get anything over 150K if avoidable. The 2.5 has also shown to throw a rod or 2 as it ages....not in the same category as the head gasket issue by any means....so if you plan on keeping the car past 200K spend the extra $$ and get a low mileage one that you can verify the status of the head gaskets.


P.S. I love Subies and have owned many of them over the years. My '97 Outback is still my favorite (although I'd love an Outback XT!)....even after having to replace the head gasket!
TD

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