Hello, just got a 99 legacy outback with a blown ej25 in it for dirt cheap and looking to get a jdm replacement but I want to know if I can swap a turbo motor and if so which one is the easiest and most reliable. Also what all would be needed for the swap. Any help would be much appreciated.  

You’ll need the matching engine management loom and ECU. 

Then splice this into the vehicle’s main loom so it works. If you have security that’s an added challenge. 

Or run an aftermarket loom and engine management. 

Other supporting mods that could be done are larger brakes. You’ll need an upgraded fuel pump. 

Best to buy a turbo vehicle from the get go and star with that base. 

Cheers 

Bennie

Yes, lots of extra work to convert.  Get a 95 2.2 the best and drop it in after changing the T-Belt, seals...

It will run for years!  Lots of info on the swaps here on the USMB.

Unless you enjoy wrestling in piles of wiring labelling, cutting, splicing...the wiring alone isn't worth it, not even counting the mechanical work.  engine, exhaust, turbo, wiring, ECU, and crossmember to clear the turbo pipe unless you're going to custom fab an exhaust around the existing crossmember or cut and weld/fab your own crossmember. 

Wiring isn't so bad if you run a flying lead stand-alone like a LINK. 

You will need an engine cradle from a turbo car. Completely custom exhaust..... and lots of other stuff. Don't expect this to be any less than $10k for a job done right with tuning, etc. 

GD