[03 baja 2.5]

*** Preliminary - if you're only leaking coolant externally then change the coolant and add two bottles of Subaru's coolant conditioner, it'll stop existing leaks (if they're not atrocious).  Don't do anything else though, either that or the following:

 

1.  Subaru EJ25 TURBO headgaskets (yes you can install them on non-turbo engines and they don't have headgasket issues)

2.  Do NOT replace Subaru headbolts, complete waste of time and you're probably getting inferior metal compared to the OEM headbolts. The one person I saw last year replace headbotls had the heads blow again already....aftermarket bolts probably weren't to blame, but they shouldn't make you feel any better about the job either.

3.  Add Subaru's Coolant Conditioner - it's required for that motor.

4.  Resurface the heads - the non-turbo's never need "checked", they're always fine to use - but they also almost always have high and low spots and should be resurfaced.  There's a fantastic DIY thread for resurfacing the heads yourself on this forum and it's super-duper easy actually.

 

Anyone replacing headbolts or suggesting it is borrowing specifications from other manufacturers, not Subaru specific.  You're better off listening to folks very familiar and well versed with Subaru's and your exact engine. Do the above and it'll never need done again.  Replacment of headbolts is materials and specifications specific...in Subaru's case they never need replacing.

Thanks for your honest answer, seems like i got a few days of good quality work to spend on my car this summer doing this job, tb gasket, clean tb, intake gaskets and such,

 

I think I'm going to post a thread on what speciality tools i need to remove anything to get the heads off if needed like fuel injectors or something, but man i can't wait to do this job

[03 baja 2.5]

I'm new into the suby world, and i was wondering if someone knew of a bullet proof system head gasket wise, i have 2003 subaru baja 2.5 non turbo 5 speed.

 

What brand head gasket should i get? what brand bolts? any other opinions on replacing parts while doing the job? Thanks

[03 baja what size speakers?]

From crutch field.com

 

-Justin

 

I appreciate it, new pioneer 6 1/2 are going in then!

[03 baja what size speakers?]

What size speakers does my car have on the front doors and the rear doors? Also is it easy to take off the panels? is there a need to worry about something breaking?

 

Thanks guys

[Baja dash time and mileage/trip suppose to stay on?]

Sorry I was rushing through the board the other day when I saw your question.

 

I didn't take the opportunity to welcome you to the board.

 

There's a great group of knowledgeable members that are a wealth of info, and we don't bash anybody here like you find on a lot of public forums.

 

Remember: There are no dumb questions! A good knowledge base is the key to solving and avoiding problems!

Thanks man, yeah plenty of plans for this baja, and i hear ya on the bashing no doubt

[03 Baja clicking sound around 25-35mph]

Yes a little play is normal. If you need a driveshaft get a used one or a rebuilt one. 

Ok good, and yeah im not sure, i'll keep this updated on what the shop says it is.

[03 Baja clicking sound around 25-35mph]

YOu have a driveshaft with 4 universal joints and a center bearing. At that mileage I wouldnt be surprised if you had a uni problem.

Are axles coming out of trans suppose to have a little play in and out? also yeah im aware, taking it to a shop this week hopefully

[03 Baja clicking sound around 25-35mph]

Just got this baja its got 200k on it, when driving down the road starting at about 25mph going on to 35mph theres a click, sounds like from the back of the trans or something not sure

 

Thought it was axles but the boots are fine and both axles have no play, maybe a u joint or driveshaft out of balance? All gears go in fine, theres no vibrations from it, i just here a clicking sound, opinions?

 

Also im probably brining it into a shop this week.

[Baja dash time and mileage/trip suppose to stay on?]

i know dumb question but thanks...

[Baja dash time and mileage/trip suppose to stay on?]

I just bought a 2003 baja and i've realized the time, mileage, and trip stay on on the dash even after ive shut the car off and locked the car? Help