Marshall Ruskin wrote:
A local yard has a Subaru Legacy FS with 130,000 KM, maybe 90,000 miles.
Is this one too tired to use as a transplant?
Marshall,
Depends on price and condition, I guess. With average maintenance, that engine
probably only has another 100k miles left in it, 150k to 200k if it's had very
good care.
My wife's '91 Legacy was owned by a pilot, and the sucker runs like new at 194k
miles. I expect to get an easy 250k, maybe 300k before she wants a new car. On
the other hand, if the autotrans goes before that, maybe I'll just have a spare
engine for the Westy!
I'd try to get a compression check, or at least pull one of the valve covers to
check the valve train components for varnish. A lot of dark varnish on the
parts can be an indication of poor maintenance, while nice shiny surfaces show
better care. Also check the rear plastic belt covers where they bolt to the
head for signs of melting and distortion. Any melting here is a sure sign that
the engine had been overheated. Probably best to pass in this case.
Was the car wrecked, or is the body in good shape? If the body's good, then the
trans or engine is shot. Any chance of finding out who the owner was? They are
often a great source of info.
Good luck,
Larry
