[Z-ster]

Hi All,

I have a 2009 Forester X Premium (non-turbo EJ2.5) with a dead engine (connecting rod #1 chewed up bearing). I will attempt to rebuild the engine (have plenty of experience rebuilding engines). However in case I decide it will be too expensive, will any EJ253 engine fit? (I do not mind moving accessories over as long as the long-block fits). I see JDM 253 engines on ebay for around $1.2k (e.g.,: item number 163329057858 on ebay)

Please let me know.

Greg

 

[lxrsub]

FWIW, I recently took an EJ253 non-turbo AT engine from a 2005 Forester I purchased at a salvage auction with minor front end damage at 103K miles and transplanted it into my 2005 Outback. I replaced the head gaskets and timing belt related components during the swap. Fortunately, I was able to start and briefly run the donor car before deciding to purchase it and CarFax had a detailed good maintenance history online. I swapped over the intake manifold and everything attached to it, the coolant crossover manifold, motor mounts, and one sensor that had different pin-out configuration. During my research to find out if this was feasible, I learned that between model years there were significant engine changes that introduced complications but the same model year was safe, at least for 2005. The "new" engine has been running like a top for 20K miles so far. YMMV..