BlueSkies

Well - thanks to everyone - I've purchased an 02' Outback Legacy Wagon. Yep -piston's are a singin' initially. But I feel I'm in good company. Hope I did the right thing - I'm still not completely comfortable, but I'm in for the ride. It's got 37,000 miles on it. What can I expect from this point on? BlueSkies!

To Grossgary: Thanks - I did stay away. Found an 02 with 37,000 but still with piston slap (At least that is what I think it is - clears up noticeably upon warming) Whadayatink? To: cowboystrait: Can you expound upon your comments? Thanks all. BlueSkies

Thanks - Trying to understand all this. You and the other replies I've received have been very helpful. I'm heading out for the hunt now! Blue Skies

Thank you for your reply. Maybe you can help me. What does piston slap mean? Do I lose performance - gas mileage - is it just noisy? The '03 I'm looking at has 61,000 miles. What happens at that mileage? The "noise" was much louder on start up and when I would step on the gas to accelerate, the engine / valves / pistons would be noisy. The dealer mechanic said I was hearing the fuel injectors injecting fuel. My mechanic heard two sounds, one a ticking from a belt or something and the other from the valves - more on the right than the left and quieter now that the car was warmed up after a 15 mile ride. Additionally, one of the hoses (larger diameter one - maybe from the air intake? - you're right I don't know what I'm talking about) was shaking (vibrating) noticeably. So much for technical jargon - what is it that is going on? Please help - and thanks. BlueSkies

Thank you for your reply. So, I am just not getting it, the engine is noisy, it develops piston slaps, blown head gaskets, etc, etc, - what's the attraction?

Hello - I'm new to the Forum. So, "Hello" to everyone. I have been looking to buy a used Outback Wagon, however, it seems that every one I look at and start up I hear the valves tapping, and especially loudly on cold start up. Is this normal??? Will it only get worse? Are these normally loud engines anyway? Thanks for any insights - The Outback would be great to cart my kayak and "stuff" around in, but I really don't want to buy into any inherent problems or have down time. BlueSkies