Peedee

iTrader: (4)

Hey guys,

Currently looking to purchase a Scoob, a blob sti. However, I am considering a hawk sti. I'm aware of the head gasket issues, but exactly how common is headgasket failure on the hawk's? Just taking completely standard cars into account, NOT modified.

Cheers all!!!!

tubbytommy

iTrader: (20)

very

rob84

iTrader: (5)

std & modified they fail.

Peedee

iTrader: (4)

Haha. I had heard stories about them being pretty unreliable head-gasket wise. What sort of mileage (on average) do they tend to give up the ghost?

Also, even though I've not heard of any issues with head gaskets regarding bugs and blobeyes, do they suffer from them (on standard cars). I understand that they will go eventually, but i'm talking about as prematurely as hawks do.

rob84

iTrader: (5)

2.0 was considered a relatively strong unit to be fair.

Mileage wise could be from 27k if used in anger. But usually around the 40k marker they've been known to give in, NOT ALL But some. also usually end up with a fractured ringland too.

Peedee

iTrader: (4)

Cheers for the info. So why do the hawk headgaskets go so soon? Is it the gaskets used or another reason?

rob84

iTrader: (5)

Head bolt torque has been known to be a little slack now and again. Could be give in the gaskets. Usual fix skim the heads and fit arp studs and cosworth gaskets/ Cometic or the std subaru items then forget about all your troubles

Donnie Brasco 46

iTrader: (2)

"Head bolt torque has been known to be a little slack now and again. Could be give in the gaskets. Usual fix skim the heads and fit arp studs and cosworth gaskets/ Cometic or the std subaru items then forget about all your troubles"

But don't forget about the big hole left in your bank balance. How much does this "fix" cost?!?

Pramas

If your gonna do it, do it right and forge it, its not a great deal more, but prices can range up to around £5k for a drive in drive out at a reputable company.
At end of the day do it right and dont pay twice, besides then you know the full history of the engine.
Might not be for everyone but its the route i took and iam happy

agoutimonty

IIRC its only some of the earlier Hawkeye's that were prone to it (there was a thread I'd seen recently that had some info on this). I've a later 07 plate Sti Type UK (Limited), which has been modified with no issues at all (around 55k now from memory). Its not "huge" power but has had a new exhaust system (sports cat), remapped properly and should be well over the 320bhp mark now. It's been looked after properly all its life and never missed a beat.

Just my opinion of course, if you're seriously considering one I'd personally speak to a few on here who have actually owned/had experiences with one (maybe drop a few PM's?). I originally went for one as I LOVED the way the hawkeyes looked (personally I think they're the nicest looking of all the newage scoobs) and have no regrets whatsoever, it's the best car I've ever owned

tubbytommy

iTrader: (20)

nice "opinion"

but rob works for a subaru dealer and no doubt sees a lot more 2,5s than all of us

agoutimonty

Yep, it's an actual owners "opinion" and there are plenty others on here who will also say the same. Speaking to someone who works with these (i.e. an actual Impreza mechanic/specialist) would also be a good place to start.

Yes the 2.5's are not as strong as the 2ltrs however I'm pointing out the fact that there are hawk owners here which have never had any trouble whatsoever (like me). So not as clear cut as saying all of them WILL go wrong!

Tidgy

not just HG on the 2.5, theres a poll of owners to do with 2.0 and 2.5 engines on here somewhere, pretty grim reading for the 2.5 (mine failed before i bought it, wrx, ring land failure), was running at about 50% failure rate a few weels back.

tubbytommy

iTrader: (20)

you havent had any trouble "yet"

agoutimonty

WOW - you really do have a problem with them eh! I've absolutely NO reason to doubt mine so will take the chance thanks

tubbytommy

iTrader: (20)

not a problem an opinion which is backed up by fact if you look on the net or ask any tuners.

having been around imprezas for 9 plus years now id never have a 2.5 unless its been rebuilt due to its unreliability.

if you have no reason to doubt yours you obviously didnt research the 2.5 engine then as that would have given you a lot of doubt

agoutimonty

nice "opinion" also...

Peedee

iTrader: (4)

Good info guys cheers!! I'm off to look at a nice JDM blob sti tomorrow so fingers crossed its a nice one!!

I have heard good things about JDM models over uk ones. Second question....can someone tell me the differences between a JDM blob and uk version. You guys are good at this info stuff lol

agoutimonty

Not sure on JDM vs UK blobs however check out this thread here (a little info): https://www.scoobynet.com/scoobynet-...m-blobeye.html

Good luck with the hunt!

tubbytommy

iTrader: (20)

jdm cars have twin scroll turbos, rear wipers,auto ic spray and a few other toys.

Peedee

iTrader: (4)

Spot on again cheers guys!! I'm guessing that ill lose the burble because of the headers?

Turbotits

iTrader: (2)

Yes

rob84

iTrader: (5)

I own them as well as work on them so I more than qualify for my Very Valid Opinion.

I've seen alsorts....