Hey all,

I just bought a '96 EJ22 short block on ebay. Here's the link to the auction. I got it for $99.99, which seemed attractive partly because I could avoid the $110 shipping cost by picking it up from the seller. Now I know that the block could have some surprises in store, but I was just wondering if (and hoping that) it was a decent bargain. I mainly bought it just to get some experience with working on the guts of a Subaru engine, which I've never done before...with any engine, actually. I'm planning on tearing it all down and having a machine shop go over it and what not, then building it back up possibly for a swap into my 97 Outback, which has a Phase I 2.5. (I understand that this would require an exhaust header swap as well to match the '96 EJ22). Not to mention all the parts I need that aren't there on the short block...

Anyway, thanks!

How much are you planning to invest in your project when all is said and done?

I don't think I would want to spend much more than a couple thousand on the entire rebuild/swap project, although the primary reason I bought the block is to have an engine to tinker with rebuilding and not have to put my car under in doing so. The 2.5 currently in my car doesn't have any problems, so I'm not looking to do a quick swap. I'm mainly just looking to get some hands-on practice and hopefully end up with a dependable engine at the ready. Does this sound sane?

I think it's a good score, worst case scenario you need to invest a few bucks. You're getting an education out of it, and great hands on experience. PLus, most likely a nice rebuilt engine.

 

I would love to do exactly what you're doing now if I had the space, time and money. Good luck!