salle071

How would you determine if it is head gasket or valve cover that is leaking?

I have 06' Legacy 2.5, with 175,000km. Recently it was in for some minor service and dealer had declared that it needs head gasket(s). I Noticed a bit of burned oil smell. Decided to look at it myself, the only thing I can see is a bit of wetness on driver side valve cover, and it does seep near the exaust port where it likely burns a bit. No oil in coolant and no coolant in oil. Runs smooth when warmed up (~3 min.) Not sure what to think. Is it possible to replace valve cover gasket without removing the engine? How about valve lash adjust? I know, timing belt is due, just don't want the cost of pulling the engine out. Ideas?

I have an 06' Legacy 2.5i auto with 120,000 miles on... due for timing belt and head gaskets etc. Came across wrecked 09' Legacy with 30k miles on it, manual. Does anyone know which model year engines are compatible? And if manual trans would fit automatic straight on? Thanks!