We have been offered a 2002 LL Bean Outback that was towed in with an overheated motor - this would be the 3.0 H6 with 226K on the clock

 

Body is so-so rust wise, but considering the area, not out of line... Interior is filthy, but for the most part intact - some wear evident on front seats...

 

it has been offered to us for $400

 

already looked into a motor - $1200 for a JDM with around 60K - can get cheaper but higher miles...

 

So...

 

Would it be worth messing with it?

Edited July 13, 20178 yr by heartless

seems iffy given the miles,rust,filth - suppose the trans or front diff give out next? probably needs struts and some bushings, maybe the cooling system is clogged-up?

 

I suppose it depends on what else you might spend that time and money on.

 

but. I REALLY like our 03 H6 and understand why someone might want a similar beast, just dunno how I'd feel if it was in poor condition though.

yeah, we decided to pass on it, for multiple reasons... not the least of which is that we are commited to putting a new roof on the house to the tune of $10k plus...

you're better off.  i've found cheap subaru's end up costing no less than more expensive ones.  it's better to shop on far more than just price.

oh, i agree 100%.. however, the car was being offered to us directly by the owner of a independent shop that I occasionally go to for work...

He was called to tow the car and figure out what was wrong with it.. didn't take him long to determine that the engine was pretty well toast after loosing all it's coolant (blown lower radiator hose).

 

He knows we prefer Subarus, and thought he would give us the chance to pick it up cheaply (basically for what the current owner is into him for) IF we were interested... sounds like it is going to end up in the salvage yard at this point. The owner has no interest in trying to fix it.

 

Had the car been in better condition (aside from the engine) we would have considered it further, but in the physical condition it is in (body rust), yeah, it is just not worth messing with. My 2002 Forester L is in much better condition.. and runs. LOL

I'm sure there are plenty of people who are in a situation to take on a risky project and it does seem like you had some more information that may have reduced the risk somewhat, but, as a casual DIYer, it would mean a LOT to me to feel what the car drives like.

 

Folks with a real shop and more experience and more time for wrenching - probably not the worst project. But, just seems like there could be better 'rolling chassis' out there to start from as a 'base'.

Wise choice, heartless.  But then, I wouldn't expect anything less from you!!!  Keep on keeping on.