Head gasket advice

[killajamal]

I have a 93 L that has seeping head gaskets. It doesn't overheat yet. Hopefully there is no warpage. My question is what kind of gaskets should I use? How much does it usually cost to have heads machined? What other things could I easily do with the engine removed? Should I use a copper coat on the head gaskets? What advice is there for dealing with the timing belt?(I assume I should replace that as well for poops and giggles.)
Never pulled a motor before or done head gaskets so this would be a learning process.
Also, anyone in the pdx/Vancouver area wanna loan me a cherry picker and or engine stand for a fair price?

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[wtdash]

I have a 93 L that has seeping head gaskets. It doesn't overheat yet. Hopefully there is no warpage. My question is what kind of gaskets should I use?
Use the stock/OEM headgaskets.

How much does it usually cost to have heads machined?
Really depends on where your live. My shop charges $70...I've heard others want $200.

What other things could I easily do with the engine removed?
Suggest you spend some time searching on here and other sites to get a complete list:
-Cam, crank, and rear main (only if leaking!) seals; separator plate; oil sensor; intake and valve cover gaskets and grommets

Should I use a copper coat on the head gaskets? NO

What advice is there for dealing with the timing belt?(I assume I should replace that as well for poops and giggles.)
Replace all the pulleys/idlers/water pump/T-stat - and T-belt. You can reuse the tensioner, but probably should replace if you're over 200K. (I buy the kit from Import Experts on ebay. They're in Yakima, WA.) Do the oil pump o-ring and check the screws.

I'd also do plugs/wires/PCV/air filter/fuel filter/new coolant/Antifreeze/...and you'll be up to date.

If it's a 5-speed, how's the clutch? Good time to do it.

Never pulled a motor before or done head gaskets so this would be a learning process.
Get the FSM (factory service manual) on here and /or the Haynes manual. Read the part about torquing the heads 3-4 times and then do it again after you say "WTF?" It's kinda strange the first few times you do it. Look up Beer Garage Subaru for some DIY help.

Call this guy for very good pricing- o-ring/gaskets/seals/t-stat should be OEM, IMHO:
Jason Douglas
Dealer# 140714
Mike Scarff Subaru of Auburn
3025 Auburn way north
Auburn, WA 98002
1-866-456-3025
253-737-1345

GL,
TD

[killajamal]

TD thank you for the reply! This was EXACTLY the sort of info I was looking for my friend. I wanna get started on it as soon as I have a break from school! Thanks again!

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[killajamal]

Anyone have any input on how to properly clean and prepare the block before reinstalling them? This is my first time doing motor work. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

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[Legacy777]

Are you using the stock head gasket?

Ideally you want to remove any old gasket material from the surface and it would be good to verify the flatness of the heads and deck with a straight edge.

[killajamal]

I'm gonna be using OEM gaskets. The heads have been milled to spec already:) just curious about what I should use to prep the block surface. I should steer away from a wire brush yes?

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[Legacy777]

I have used a plastic scraper and brake cleaner to clean any of the old gasket material off. I have used a brass bristle brush for anything that's stubborn. I'd stay away from the steel wire brushes.

[killajamal]

Ahhh! Perfect advice josh. Thank you!!

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