i am installing a new water pump on my 98 2.5, my question is, I am reusing the plastic curve pipe thingy under the water pump, and when I tighten it on my new water pump, there is a gap (around 1/8") in the center of it, away from the two bolts. where as the contact area directly under the 2 bolts has a good seal.

 

it seems the plastic pipe thingy is warped in the center, is this normal? I have checked the rubber seal for the thermostat and its not being caught in the center.

 

Thanks!

1/8" would be a little much, but they do bend slightly. You may have over tightened the bolts. You can pick up the metal one off a early 90's 2.2 and replace the plastic.

It might be warped. Woah those are available in metal? Darn I just bought the replacement plastic ones. I think that part is 11060AA070 HOUSING FOR THERMOSTAT FOR 1995-2006 LEGACY OUTBACK & SUS (NON-H6 NON-TURBOS) ALL.