Water loss update.
 

Well had the motor tested and yes its a head gasket problem. Could not tell me any more than that. So whats the next steps? No doubt some of you have been faced with this situation. Interested to hear how you set about sorting the problem. In the Leicester area so have a number of Subaru specialists available.

Well I dont think there's any way of telling which head it is engine has to come out and both gaskets changed. Whilst heads are off make sure the valves are checked and do any work which may be needed on them. Also inspect the heads very closely for any signs of hairline cracks etc, it can happen !!

You may as well replace cambelt when it's going back together, and possibly tensioners depending how long they've been on.
Fit the best head gaskets you can afford - I got some multi layered things fitted, but I'm sure the OE subaru ones are fine. Would buy them from a reputable supplier rather that fleabay. Make sure you get the right head gaskets for the year of your car (engine) - I think I read that they changed thickness over the life of the classic model - cant be sure ?? I fitted solid bolts rather than stretch bolts, but I believe you can re-use the existing ones without problem.

As well as cylinder head gaskets you may need up-pipe/down-pipe gaskets etc when it goes back together so maybe you can buy a rebuild gasket 'set'.

Depending on what you are quoted also consider a complete engine from API Engines - repair will be cheaper, but it depends how much difference there is in it. Phone API anyway as they will provide you with a competative quote for the repair work and can advise much better than me !

Whilst the engine is out it may be worth splitting the gearbox off and checking the state of your clutch, depending on how many miles it's got on it.

Gaskets
Subaru Parts at Graham Goode Racing

My opinions. I didn't do my own head gasket repairs, but listened very carefully to the advice of the man that did :)

A sad time for your poor car, dont swear at it for a week like I did mine every time I looked at it, it doesn't fix itself lol.

We had this issue 3 weeks after buying our scooby....

and after taking advise decided to have an engine rebuild, not a cheap fix, but more reliable than just having the head gaskets done alone.

Just not a good time of the year for this sort of thing to happen....but doesnt take to many days to repair once work is started

Thanks for that 'Funky ' :thumb:

Give me a call 'cookieman ' and l'll talk you through the options. No obligation.

David APi

01926 614333