05 Outback 2.5i Engine Swap
We have an '05 with leaky head gaskets, yes common problem. Issue is it is a
daily driver, and want to pre-prep a replacement engine with new head gaskets,
timing belt, etc prior to tearing out the old motor. While looking for a
replacement motor to purchase, would you be able to let me know what model
year engines will fit into the car? (Standard 2.5i auto trans.)
2 Answers
TheSubaruGuruBoston answered 3 years ago
2005 can be a tricky year, as it uses the 2000-2004 era motor but the 2006-2009 body and a funky exhaust used just for 2005, with 5 O2 sensors, Hence you have to be careful with emissions stuff, egr ports, etc. You wouldn't want to have to interchange heads AGAIN after doing all the work, so maybe consider replacing the HGs on the original 2005 instead. Why would you chase a different motor anyway? Just for the 2006+ variable valce cams? Not worth it...just rebuild the 2005. Be sure to send the heads out to a good machine shop to test and assure flatness, as well replace the idler and tensioner pulleys with the t-belt. The wp and t-stat are probably ok, so leave 'em alone. Have fun.
TheSubaruGuruBoston answered 3 years ago
2005 can be a tricky year, as it uses the 2000-2004 era motor but the 2006-2009 body and a funky exhaust used just for 2005, with 5 O2 sensors, Hence you have to be careful with emissions stuff, egr ports, etc. You wouldn't want to have to interchange heads AGAIN after doing all the work, so maybe consider replacing the HGs on the original 2005 instead. Why would you chase a different motor anyway? Just for the 2006+ variable valce cams? Not worth it...just rebuild the 2005. Be sure to send the heads out to a good machine shop to test and assure flatness, as well replace the idler and tensioner pulleys with the t-belt. The wp and t-stat are probably ok, so leave 'em alone. Have fun.