mikec03

OK, you convinced me. I also found this write up by "endwrench" which says that one could probably skip changing the water pump at one 60,000 mi belt interval change [ie change at 120,000mi], but not at the 105,000 mi belt interval change. It also has very clear instructions and diagrams for changing the timing belt on a SOHC. I hope I did the URL right. http://www.endwrench.com/images/pdfs/TBeltEWWin05.pdf

Thanks for the comments. I was aware of the interference problem which doesn't apply to my '95 Sub but does to my two newer one. The interference problem certainly does add a scary element to be considered. However, I still haven't heard of a water pump failure. And there is no reason to just change just the water pump. The three idler pulleys should also be changed since a failure of any of them would cause as much a problem. I do a few things on the Sub's but not a timing belt change.

I've seen a number of posts recommending changing the tensioner pulley and water pump when changing the timing belt. I've had 7 or 8 Subaru's [i've lost count] and I have never done this. The cost of a timing belt change at dealer is $350 but can escalate to $900 [over the phone vague estimate] if all the possible changes are made. The parts alone for above are over $200 for a '95. I usually drive the Subs up to 250,000 mi before the clutch or transmission or ? goes out. But never the water pump or timing belt. I'm I being foolish?