LynnP

For those who may have similar questions as I did, here is some additional light shed by Chris at www.i-speed.us RE: turbo engine in a non turbo car Most of Subaru engines are like legos...interchangeable. The engine will fit in nearly all other 93 to present Subaru's. This does not mean, however, that you can just switch parts indiscriminately. Going from non turbo to turbo can be done. But it needs to be done right. Here are some parts you will need to fully convert your n/a car to turbo. - a new turbo cross member - an upgraded engine control system (preferably an stock turbo ecu) - intercooler, hood with hood scoop, upgraded fuel system, turbo and all other ancillary turbo equipment. So to answer your question, YES it will be more expensive to make you n/a car into a turbo car. There are aftermarket turbo kits available which are less expensive, but not legal. The least expensive solution fix would be to get the machine work and change the gaskets. Let us know if you need any more help:) Chris Escamilla I-Speed USA

Steve, it's really not the shop, but the Subaru specialist who works there. Brady used to work at Bud's, but I tracked him down at: L K C Automotive 184 E State Rd PLEASANT GROVE, UT 84062 - 3613 (801) 796-7007 Brady was aware of the HG problems with this particular engine and knows his stuff. He also advised against following Chris' advice (see above) on going with another engine due to the differences in computer systems, sensors, etc. Thanks again for your help Steve and good luck with your EJ25 engine. Lynn

Ok, they told me yesterday that everything tested ok and they just need to replace the gaskets. They are also doing the machine work, reworking the valves, and replacing the timing belt, timing belt tensioner (leaking oil), and the bearings for around $2,000 total (1680 if I didn't have them to the valve job). A lot better than the 5 grand I was told I'd have to pay in the first place. Thanks again. Lynn

FYI, in case anyone is interested or has the same sort of problem, I received this response from an email I sent to Chris at www.i-speed.us "Sorry to hear about your motor woes. You are not alone in your dilemma. We get many emails from people who need help. Here are our suggestions: 1. If you want to keep the car and the motor is good: Have the heads, if they can be, re-surfaced and use the newer 5 layer metal head gaskets. I am thinking that your car is one of the older 2.5 with the black 3 layer gaskets. Those older gaskets were known to eventually leak. Thus the creation for the new 5 layer stainless steel ones. The new ones retail for about $50 a piece. 2. If you want to keep the car and the motor is bad: Have the heads, if they can be, re-surfaced and use the newer 5 layer metal head gaskets. ALSO, invest in the 2.5 turbo block from Subaru. Retail is about $1700. It is already cheaper than a re-build. PLUS you have the satisfaction that the piece is completely NEW. Now, because it is a turbo block, does not mean that it will only work on a turbo car. The turbo block will work on your N/A car and it will be smog legal! Of course everything depends upon your budget In our opinion it would be best to get a new 2.5 turbo block (like the one off the STi or forester) and have it installed, turbo-less, on your car. FYI: a motor swap on a Subaru takes about 15 hours. Parts and labor for this job should be ~$3500 USD. Let us know if you have any more questions. Regards, Chris I-Speed USA" Many thanks to all who have offered their advice! I've now got the car at the new shop and am hoping to hear what the damage is soon. Lynn

Steve, Bud's is still around, but their expert Subaru mechanic is now at a place called LKG in Pleasant Grove. The mechanic's name is Brady Kimball. Thanks Steve! Lynn

Hi Steve! Small world. Yes, I'm in Provo, so that wouldn't be out of the question. I'm going to present the recommendations I get here to the shop that has my car now and if I don't like their response it's good to have a plan B. Thanks! Lynn

They did some compression testing of the radiator and it loses compression and drains radiator fluid when it is running with a load (not just idling). He says it is cracked in there, but it sounds like he may be wrong? Ok, so here's what I'm thinking is best to do per your recommendations: 1-Have them pull the oil pan and see if it's just the head gasket. 2-If it is the HG, fix it for $1200 or less . If it is not the HG, put in a the more reliable (though less powerful ) 2.2 liter engine, possibly acquired through CC and using a local shop they recommend. I was sorta hoping I had an excuse to get a turbo or WRX engine in there for about the same price, but on the other hand, saved cash would be awesome!!!! Lynn

Well, that's what they tell me. I tend to believe them because the antifreeze is dissappearing and the engine overheats within maybe 5 minutes on the road. rweddy, thanks for the suggestion on the 2.2. Will it be less powerful then? Lynn

Hi all! I just discovered this site and am happy (and relieved) to be here. My '97 Legacy 2.5 GT just blew its head gaskets after 130,000 miles. I am told that a rebuilt engine with a 3 year warrantee will cost me about $5,000 installed. Ouch. I am willing to cough up the cash because I know I can't find another car I like as much for that price. In doing my research I have discovered that the head gasket/overheating problem is a common problem for this engine, so I don't really want to replace it with the same one. I mentioned this to my mechanic and he says that while other engines (such as a 2.0 turbo or a newer WRX engine) might fit, but they might require replacing other parts (like exhaust pipes and changes for turbo) and might also create emissions problems (I live in an emissions state-Utah). Since I am not technical at all I am willing to rely upon anyone who is willing to help for direction. Thank you! Lynn