New to the forum. I fly behind an EA81 in my Karatoo (a two seat light plane) Recently had some vibration issues come up - a leakdown test pointed to the top end, and I found I have a crack between the valves on one head. Anybody have a head or two they would be willing to part with? OR can suggest a good place to get them? thanks,

-Matt

I have a pair off of a good runner, however they too are cracked between the valves or at least they look like it to me. I don't think it's uncommon to see that on these. They are off of an 84 EA81 Hydro lifter engine.

 

-Jeff

Someone replied on Flysoob list that 90% of EA81's have a crack there. Is it typical then and not a problem? I would think any crack in the head is a bad thing....

-Matt

I think I have a set that's ok

I've seen cracked cylinder heads on at least three different generations of Subaru engines: EA81, EA82, EJ205.

 

In many cases the engines run fine and I've been told that the cracks are both bad for the engine and that they are harmless.  Since you'll be in a plane, I'd suggest having them repaired or replaced, for piece of mind.

 

Flygas is an outfit in Italy that makes custom cast, dual port EA81 heads.  Ram Performance in the States is an engine builder who specializes in EA81s for aircraft use.