What head gaskets to buy?

[jnorion]

I am considering buying a project Legacy that (supposedly, haven't had a chance to really inspect it yet) has a blown head gasket or gaskets, but has an otherwise great engine. I went looking around to find price quotes on new gaskets and now I'm confused. Schucks has a gasket (here) for $30 each, two required, that looks like the proper thing. They also sell a head gasket set (here) with lots of extra gaskets, for $223. Assuming that the engine really is in good condition other than the blown gasket, is it necessary to buy the set or can I go with the $60 for the individual pieces?

[jnorion]

bump

Anyone?

[thehookeup]

go to subaru, or you can do what doug and i do. go to distcount imports. Carr subaru you can get a set for like $90, and $30 bucks i think at discount imports. discount imports have good quality stuff too. www.discountimportparts.com or you can try suabruparts.com

[jnorion]

OK, sounds good, but still, do I need all the extra crap that comes in the "set" or can I just buy the individual gaskets?

[snowman]

If you're just doing the HG job, I've been told that's all you need. If I was doing it, I would do a complete reseal and T-belt change at the same time, since you have to take apart most of the same stuff. If you're trying to do it on the cheap, at least replace the cam seals and O-rings, as well as the rocker cover gaskets.

Check out 1stsubaruparts.com. A complete overhaul set from them should be cheaper than the HG set quote you had from Schmuck's.

Whatever you do, go with OEM gaskets. You'll be better off in the long run.

[206er]

victor reinz at napa are MLS gaskets and are a good bit cheaper than subaru stuff.