This is part 5 of a multi-part series I recorded replacing the head gaskets on a 2003 Subaru Outback, 2.5L 2458CC H4 FI VIN: EJ253
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50 thoughts on “Replace subaru head gasket ej253 – part 5 of 5”
  1. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Guillermo Palacios says:

    Great videos. Very helpful. Just happen to be doing the same on my 03 NA Forester. I am Looking for the torque specs

  2. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Rezzinage says:

    The reason why the timing belt didn’t align is due to the material shaved off of the head. Reason why most people don’t rebuild engines and they get new blocks

  3. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars SAVAGED84 says:

    Great videos man I watched all 5 parts everything was on point 👌 the only thing I would suggest on these Subaru head gasket jobs with the EJ251-EJ253 would be to not use any gaskets that have a coating you can get the MLS gasket made for the turbo version without a coating on it because that is the main reason for head gasket failure on these model cars once the coating deteriorates it fails so that would be my suggestion and if done right will last a long time.

  4. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars spyderm4n says:

    Thanks for the 5 parts of the video! This was one of the main inspirations to tackle my own head gasket. I ended up only doing one side and replaced the other side's valve cover, adjusted the valves, and replaced the spark plug tube seals. It's slightly weeping oil and now I'm somewhat regretting not spending the time to do the other head gasket! All in all though thanks for the videos. It gave me confidence! Subbed!

  5. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Patricia Freitas says:

    OK after all 5 videos, and seeing how much is involved, the question I have is how much does it cost and how long does it take. I wonder if it is worth the price on an older Subaru or should
    i just get rid of the car.

  6. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars pork chop says:

    Eric your so methodical it's scary! Always great quality work

  7. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Matt simms says:

    Great videos great job

  8. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars ponch says:

    I have a Subaru with only 70,000 miles on it with a head leaking oil, at least I think it's from the head. After seeing your video, I'm wondering if anyone around here can do the work with the same care and knowledge that you exhibited. . (Western Massachusetts) Would you mind telling me how much your Subaru job cost the owner?

  9. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars JUMA NAJlm says:

    Thank you very much is good

  10. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Nick says:

    This series was awesome, Thanks Eric……………YOU DA MAN!

  11. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars king pnut McCauley says:

    You take pride in what you do great job

  12. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Ted Ebert says:

    Love the videos. My friends give me their 03-05 foresters because its too costly an investment for them when HG goes. I'm ready for the 4th HG job. I just do them for myself and my son. Always have one ready for the one that rusts out. Love the torque angle gage torque wrench!! Thanks for the great video!

  13. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars John Soper says:

    Righteous coverage and awesome delivery clasic and classy keep it up and keeping it coming on.

  14. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars ken davis says:

    Awesome video

  15. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Stephen says:

    That's my problem with dealers…Rush the job, then charge the customer for THEIR fuck-ups (use an impact improperly, charge the customer for broken fastener removal).
    I used to buy cheap wrenches, sockets, pliers, etc. for the express purpose of modifying them for special tasks (I had a box of modified, only used once tools).
    I'm not referring to you. but the old saying "Never time to do it right, always time to do it twice" is still alive and thriving.

  16. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars John5444 noway says:

    Very nice video Thank you

  17. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Triple D Auto says:

    I really appreciate these videos, they are informative and professional…. thank you for taking the time and effort to make them

  18. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars David Shellhaas says:

    As an old retired tech it is really rewarding to watch a tech who knows what he is doing and takes the time to do it right! Watched all 5 thanks

  19. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars BillKayNJ says:

    Just wanted to comment and say that this video is still helping folks 6 years out…

    I am looking at purchasing a used Subaru, and I like to know what I am potentially getting myself into.

    Thanks from a new subscriber!

  20. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Daddyoh says:

    Enjoy the long detailed videos. Skimming over is like just showing the heads on then off without the procedure.

  21. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Daddyoh says:

    I use cascade powder Automatic dishwashing detergent. Works great and it works also when flushing a radiator. 1/2 cup drive car run or drive car 5 miles flush and refill with coolant.

  22. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Daddyoh says:

    I like how you use a small air ratchet to install the bolts even when you did the head bolts then you proceed to torque bolts down. Others I have watched use a larger bat ratchet or air and they get tightened up to 50 to 80 ft lbs and that's not good.

  23. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Daddyoh says:

    Your daughter has the same personality or mannerisms as your wife, awesome

  24. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars charles arata says:

    i'v got just one thing to say which is quite something if not impossible at 61 bin in it long time you are a dam good mechanic / specialist.

  25. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Cornell Custom Trains says:

    With the head gaskets leaking on the 2.5i around 100,000kms , would consider that a design flaw? I have 2 imprezas that both needed full engine rebuilds around 120K to fix leaking head gasket.

  26. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Brian Evans says:

    Good job woo-hoo 👏

  27. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Richard Jones says:

    Superb series as always.Thanks.

  28. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Dale Pederson says:

    Great video. I think it's time too pull the heads on a 2003 Baja. With 278000 miles on the odometer . Time well tell!

  29. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Gregory Rappaport says:

    So what can one expect to pay for a job like this? My 07 Forrester appears to have this problem, and Subaru is asking for just shy of 4K.

  30. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Matthew Dameron says:

    Local dealership quoted me $3500 to do the head gaskets on my Forester, you just saved me alot of money. Thanks so much, subscribed.

  31. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Nate Fowler says:

    Great videos

  32. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars JayBird G says:

    New sub
    Love the channel.

  33. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Marc Broust says:

    Wouldn't it be cheaper to just buy another car?

  34. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Thad Machia says:

    Love your videos I have a Subaru Legacy now so watching your videos on that now. Head gasket replacement quite nice seeing how to do that! Thank you!

  35. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars king pnut McCauley says:

    Your the best I seen

  36. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Robert Rich says:

    Your channel is a pleasure to watch!! Thank you for what you do and share. Best wishes!! Happy Prosperous New year!! 2022

  37. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars tim says:

    those final ft pound readings were helpful. Did head gasket on my 2.5 and 4000 miles later the lower radiator hose clamp failed and I was caught with a overheated motor. Leaking externally, I loosened and re torqued the passenger side. Driver side was still good. It seems I did no harm – no obvious leak, time will tell. I want to avoid the one step Barr's head gasket leak stop.

  38. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Bass Player says:

    If the torque specification calls for a dry bolt then the torque should be reduced by 25 + % on a lubed bolt…

  39. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Chris Bentley says:

    I have watched all 5 back to back. Very thorough. You can also see a massive difference in your self confidence and ability to interact with the camera. A brilliant channel I bet Mrs O is proud of everything you have done over the years and everything you have become.

  40. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Dan Netzler says:

    Thank You for taking the time to pass this info on to all of us.Working on finishing up our first 2.5i sohc in a '08 outback .If it was not for your video I would not have taken this job on. Be safe, Dan

  41. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars dbinok says:

    Great series. Thanks for putting in the effort to make a high quality video. I learned a lot.

  42. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Don Chabot says:

    this was excellent series- like this format for the future.

  43. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Matthew Califana says:

    Better torque 2 yield then torque beyond yield .= snap crackle pop .

  44. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jason Wampler says:

    You're a brave man to tackle the single ohc water boxer and actually attempt a top end rebuild on it. NOTE, HOWEVER, AFTER ALL 90 DEGREE/ANGLE TORQUE BOLTS ARE ON FINAL APPROACH, YOU SHOULD SEE EVEN TORQUE FOR ALL SIX BOLTS. You have a warped firedeck on the casehalf. Aluminum does that. I would've rebuilt the entire engine.

    But that's just my o

  45. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Torque wrench Daddy says:

    How much would a job like this cost the customer ?

  46. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jose Luis G. Gonzalez says:

    It wasn't long at all . Dam boy you know your shit. I really enjoyed the video. Your so fucken funny too. Keep doing what your doing.

  47. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars David Davis says:

    Great series. Have a 2003 Baja. Done it all!

  48. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars J Kaehler says:

    I know this was a long time ago. But what was that yellow light on the dash when you took a quick in cab view. Kind of looks like an engine light to me. And it's okay that you split up videos in the parts but you don't really have to stick to the half hour if you wanted to make a few long ones that's fine.

  49. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Alphonso Williams says:

    You did” a great job on that Subaru”💰” from lightning ✌️”