Hello everyone,

 

I'm new here & I'm a proud daddy of 2 Foresters ( Just got my 2nd). My 03 Forester XS was purchased with about 130,00 just about 4 years ago and it still runs strong & looks good too ( see the pic) but, it has some issues I'd like to ask if anyone has experienced.

 

1st it looks like I have an oil leak emanating from my oil cooler & oil filter area, I worked at a quick change I know the filter is tight. I went ahead and got a new oil cooler gasket ring and replaced it and it seems like it didn't help. I also noticed that oil is starting to seep from my head gaskets. I lose about half a quart of oil every few weeks or so, depending on how far I drive.

 

2nd When I start her up it feels like the entire engine shakes like all heck, could be the exhaust but still not sure I know it didn't do it the first 3 years.

 

3rd is a question, What weight of oil do u guys recommend? I've heard some guys using 5W40 full synth in their Subies, does anyone know if this is better than just 5w30 Full Synth?

 

I would really like to keep her running for another few years she's been good to my family and the wife doesn't want her to leave lol.

 

Thank you in advance!

5W40 Synthetic is best for older 2.5L engines

Oil cooler is not leaking - it's the head gasket on that side.

 

The oil loss is not likely entirely head gaskets. It's actually from clogged oil control rings.

 

Do a re-ring with 770 head gaskets and make sure you get a new 10mm oil pump for it.

 

Going forward after that I recommend a 5w40 synthetic also. All those miles with a small oil pump can take their toll on bearing clearances.

 

GD

GD you have indicated in the past the Oil Pumps are stamped showing the thickness of the pump.  It would be great if you could put some pictures up of the different pumps.

 

Thanks

Larry

I'll see what I can do. I just threw a 7 in the scrap metal.... along with the rod knocking block it was attached to.

 

GD

Edited September 18, 20178 yr by GeneralDisorder