ATH

For those that didn't see the previous post, it overheated on her last week and she immediately pulled over and called a flat bed. I thought it might have been the head gasket, but was hoping it was something cheap like the thermostat. The dealer confirmed it was the head gasket (not sure if it really is, I haven't had a chance to talk to them about how they diagnosed that). But, the 2.5L in the 97 Outback is supposedly a bored out 2.2 Subaru engine, so the head gaskets are thin and crappy.

Anyway, the dealer quoted $2500 to fix, which was actually cheaper than another local Subie shop. Seemed pretty steep, and they want to pull the engine, replace rear seal, head gasket, water pump, and do a bunch of other gaskets. Shouldn't they be able to just pull off the head, machine it if it's warped, replace the head gasket, and be done? Should only take 15 hours tops from a professional mechanic. Oh and they also might replace the radiator, which would be another $400.

So, is she getting taken? Should I drive down to the dealer and check it out myself? I'd like to save my sis some money if possible. Thanks!

AntiSocial

Since it's an aluminum block, the right way to do it would be to deck the block and heads (2 sets in a subie), replace head gaskets, replace bearings, rings and valve guides, etc.

But that's because I'm a little off. For your sister, it should be fine. You should also look into how much a salvage yard motor would be. Sometimes, it's better to put a whole motor in than to machine the old one.

S4mig@PEB tuning

do those other gaskets. i'd do it for the 2500 if i were you but GET IT IN WRITING! (if possible) you don't want them finding "other hidden costs" as they tear the thing down

ATH

Yah ok, thanks guys!

RKA

As I said earlier, the head gasket alone should be $800 or so including any machining that might be necessary.

When oil and coolant mix, they form a slurry that might get kinda thick. I've heard this mix is slightly acidic as well. That might be their motivation for replacing the radiator, esp. if the radiator is going on 8 years already.

I've been through this with my Honda, and the bill for the head gasket and machining work was approx $800 at an independent. Unfortunately for me, the problem was actually a cracked block...which required a new engine. They flushed out the cooling system for me a few times, but there is still residual oil in there. Everything seems to run fine though. Temps are normal, and I've had 0 issues in the last year (25K miles).

GrandPaJohn

How many miles on it. Might be more economical to buy a rebuilt engine.

ATH

Not sure, 100K maybe?