Rebuild it better?

[JayPitch]

I have a 1999 outback with a 2.5 and a stick and the motor sounds like its going to fall apart so I'm going to rebuild it. Can I rebuild it better?

[spooln30]

Technically any engine can be built stronger, most aren't worth the time or money.

The 2.5 dohc NA engines are pretty reliable, minus the whole headgasket deal but reliable none the less. If you were to fully rebuild your engine using good OEM parts I don't see why you couldn't have a good 300k engine. Now if you have a rod knock then somewhere down the line the engine was mistreated, meaning lack of oil changes or an oil leak that wasn't taken care of and ran low on oil. The stronger or more durable Subaru engines are definitely the turbo engines and the new BRZ one. If it's more HP you want then turbo is the way to go. If a plain reliable engine is what you want and your engine isn't too damaged then just rebuild it and drive the crap out of it.

[Osei]

Technically any engine can be built stronger, most aren't worth the time or money. .....

 

 

Look hard at all your costs to see if it's worth it to you.

Machining your crank would be easiest. This way all your rods and bearings would be one size. They don't all come from the factory with one size..

 

O.

[monkeyposeur]

For the best bang for your buck rebuild it stock and take care of all the seals, timing belt, pulleys, water pump, etc. and then put your money towards good tires, suspension, rear sway bar, sweet stereo, JDM projectors, brakes, nice headers and exhaust.

 

Then if you want more power do a lot of research and do an engine swap.