[davidh190]

Guys, I’ve caught Subie fever and I’m seeking a cure. Saw this 2003 Forester X on Craigslist. 180k miles, automatic.

Spoke with the owner and he/she said that there’s a knock in the engine. According to the mechanic, due to a lack of oil, one of the pistons started malfunctioning. So I’m trying to see how feasable it would be to buy it cheap and repair the engine. I am planning to replace the 4 pistons and rings, resurface the head, head gasket set, water pump, timing belt. I had a few questions.

1. I called the parts shop and said they have graphite and stell sets. Which one is better?

2. Anything else i should replace to prevent future oil leaks?

3. Anything else I should replace?

 

[adc]

I don't know about the pistons. But at that mileage, get a price for the engine and a price to rebuild or replace the auto tranny. Then allow another few hundred extra. Tranny's are rock solid ..but if it never had its oil changed........

If you got it free it might be worthwhile..otherwise forget it.

 

[soobcrazy]

My guess is that the "piston issue" due to "low oil" is actually a spun rod bearing. Price out a shortblock from your local dealer and reevaluate if the car is worth it or not.

 

[orndog]

My guess is that the "piston issue" due to "low oil" is actually a spun rod bearing. Price out a shortblock from your local dealer and reevaluate if the car is worth it or not.

This would be my guess as it is common.

 

[davidh190]

My guess is that the "piston issue" due to "low oil" is actually a spun rod bearing. Price out a shortblock from your local dealer and reevaluate if the car is worth it or not.

If I was able to get it for $300/$400, would it be worth it?

 

[soobcrazy]

I can't tell you if it's worth fixing, that's your question to answer. A brand new shortblock from the dealer will be $1,400-1,800, if memory serves me. If the rest of the car is in great condition and you plan to keep the car for a long time, then yes, it would probably be worth fixing. If it's a rust bucket or you were planning to trade it in, then probably not.

 

[davidh190]

That sounds good! Would keep me around my budget. What years would be a straight drop in without any modifications? 2000-04?

 

[soobcrazy]

@davidh190 Just take your VIN to the dealer and they'll hook you up with the correct shortblock.