I am replacing the head gaskets on my 99 Subaru (180K miles). It has a 2.5 SOHC.

 

Couple of questions for those who have replaced gaskets or heads on these motors.

 

(1) Has anyone used their original head bolts on a head install. And if so, have you run into any problems from doing this. I have been getting conflicting information regarding head bolts needing to be replaced

 

(2) Has anyone used resurfaced heads that were shaved more than .005" ? and if so, have you had any issue's with them

 

(3) Has anyone installed heads without following the torque procedure outlined in the FSM to a tee ? If not, were there any consequences ?

 

Thanks in advance

Mike, a 1999 Forester XT? In 1999 the Forester came as a base model, an L, and a S. So, what gives?

Mike, a 1999 Forester XT? In 1999 the Forester came as a base model, an L, and a S. So, what gives?

 

My Bad.

 

Is an S Model

Any opinions/advice on my questions ?

 

Thanks,

Mike

(1) Has anyone used their original head bolts on a head install. And if so, have you run into any problems from doing this. I have been getting conflicting information regarding head bolts needing to be replaced

 

Yes. Twice. Without ill effects, but only 20,000 miles so far. See this thread

 

http://www.ultimatesubaru.org/forum/showthread.php?t=41751&highlight=head+bolts

 

and many others on the topic.

 

(2) Has anyone used resurfaced heads that were shaved more than .005" ? and if so, have you had any issue's with them

 

Heads were shaved but I don't know how much.

 

(3) Has anyone installed heads without following the torque procedure outlined in the FSM to a tee ? If not, were there any consequences ?

 

I followed the FSM, though I wasn't overly careful about the 90 and 180 degree tightenings. So far, so good.

 

Good luck,

 

Tom