Hi Everyone,

 

First of all, Happy Father's Day to all the Dad's out there 

Second, If there is another thread here that addresses this: please post--couldn't find one addressing this specifically and dont want everyone to  have to repeat themselves.

 

Looking to purchase 1998 Legacy Wagon. 4cyl. 164k miles.  Asking only $1200

Owner disclosed a leaking HG.  States it overheated "1 time" (of course, I dont know if that's true).  Says he keeps close eye on the levels and no overheating since.  New radiator.  No other leaking fluids/other issues. Selling it b/c has 4 vehicles and does not want them all anymore.

 

*Question 1: what is the liklihood of the Heads needing replaced vs. resurfaced? 

*Question 2: For those who have had a resurfacing, what did you pay? Will also have the timing belt/water pump, etc done while they are in there. I'm expecting this to cost around $1500-2000?

*Question 3: how can I evaluate for signs there is damage?

 

It is my understanding that the danger of a leaking HG is that the engine could overheat from low coolant and cause engine damage.  Are there any other reasons a leaking HG would be dangerous?

 

Thanks for your help...on a budget and need a reliable vehicle.  We are very happy with my wife's 09 Forester.

Pasta

Your in Boise, just take them down to Import Engine Supply and have them milled.  It's $42 a head and well worth the money.  For another $90 they will install your provided (not theres as that is more) valve stem seals and camshaft seals.

 

If you need help your welcome to PM me.  I'm in Nampa but go to Boise/Meridian all the time.

To add to this, those heads shouldn't need replaced, just resurfaced.  If the head gasket is leaking it needs to be fixed before it splits across and dumps water into the oil.  That will spin a bearing and isn't worth the risk.  Overheating is the minor concern because if water gets into the oil and thins it up it will do hard damage.

 

But, without seeing the car, I wouldn't blame head gasket unless there are symptoms directly to that.  It could also be thermostat or a coolant line as a possibility or even a bad radiator.

Edited June 21, 201510 yr by lstevens76

Great advice, thank you! I will PM you later in the afternoon.