Just wondering if replacing a 99 2.5 outback motor is easier from the top, or disconnecting the axles and subframe bolts, and lifting the car off the motor, taking transfer out with engine. Always hate trying to line up the engine with transfer in the car. Thanks

pull it from the top. super simple. I just did a writeup on the remove and reinstall if you want the visuals.

Sure, I will check it out

How do you know if it's phase 1 or phase 2

Yours should be phase one. If it's an EJ25 (stamped on the block behind the alternator) it should be two cams on each side (DOHC) The front timing covers would look like a bowtie in shape.

 

Phase 2 would be single overhead cam (SOHC)

 

Google some pictures of a DOHC subaru motor and a SOHC subaru motor and you'll see it right away.

 

Phase 1 DOHC motors can be replaced with the phase 1 EJ22 (1995-1998) motors for longer life/better reliability. I reccomend it highly. Usually cheaper to buy  2.2 anyway

I don't have the car at my house yet, I told my sister to look at the emission sticker under the hood so I could give her the ball park price, she sent me Engine type: EJ25DAXEYL

all 99 legacy and outbacks are Phase I.   

 

Only Foresters, Impreza's, and Legacy's with 2.2's are Phase II. 

 

unless it's been converted, swapped, custom...but that's just going to need to be looked at if that's the case. 

Yup. That's phase 1 (Which makes repair a bit cheaper/easier)

 

Best fix is a 95-98 EJ22 from a legacy or Impreza with automatic transmission. (Those from a manual trans run fine but will throw a check engine code since they have no EGR) 95 is the magic year because everything will bolt up 100% to your car. It's also non interference which is an added bonus. 96-98 bolt in 99% - you just need the exhaust y pipe from the EJ22 since it's single port. car-part.com is a great resource for finding local used motors. Can be found for as little as $300 in good condition and most will come with a 30-90 day warranty.

 

EJ22 has little in the way of head gasket troubles and when maintained will last about 3 times as long as the DOHC motors. Repairing the original 2.5 is a real gamble since it overheated. Heads can warp and the rod bearings were weak on those motors. Used DOHC motors are a gamble too and don't tend to last as long.

Edited August 4, 20169 yr by AdventureSubaru