WOT: SOHC 2.5 Subaru Head Gasket Leak Options

[yeahmag]

I'm 95% sure my 2003 Legacy has the dreaded external HG leak. Both sides appear to be leaking oil slightly and the rear of the drivers side appears to be leaking coolant. I plan on trying the Subaru "Seal Conditioner", but have little faith...

Anyone done one of these before? If I've built a Type IV can I do this?

I'd probably yank the motor and just do both to get it over with.

[charliew]

If you haven't changed the ac and ps and alt belt you might as well do that too. And make sure the motor mounts aren't oily. Did you say cam seals also? Single ohc you may not need to remove the cams to get to the head bolts, I don't remember. Be sure and check the heads for a straight surface. If it's got over 90k I would do a valve job on the heads while they are off. Make sure the coolant crossover is not leaking also. You will also need a sealant for the head bolts. Also if there is oil behind the flywheel check the cover on the back of the case under the flywheel on the pass side, the plastic ones crack. You will probably need a motorcycle impact tool to get the screws loose without ruining the crosses in the screws. We use copper spray on the head gaskets. Don't forget new spark plugs. Use a torque wrench, the aluminum is really easy to strip. I wouldn't use the cheap timing belt and idlers and tensioner kit get the real suby parts. Thers a lady on nasioc that gives a nasioc discount.