Buyer's tips for an 85 Subaru Wagon?

[jjp9347]

Hi,

I'm looking at buying an older 85 Subaru wagon, and was wondering if
anyone had a laundry list of Subaru-specific peculiarities to be aware
of? This would be my first Subaru, so i'm just not that familiar with
their particular problem areas. Thanks for assisting!

 

[bgd]

Great place to keep an old subaru going tips/tricks advice

http://www.ultimatesubaru.net/forum/

 

[pheasant]

Hi,

I'm looking at buying an older 85 Subaru wagon, and was wondering if
anyone had a laundry list of Subaru-specific peculiarities to be aware
of? This would be my first Subaru, so i'm just not that familiar with
their particular problem areas. Thanks for assisting!

mine likes to rust. no big deal

mechanically; leaky cam seals but nothing to get excited over. It's an
expensive repair, so just do them when you redo timing belts, and in the
mean time don't worry about the couple drips you'll most likely have.

nothing else stands out.

 

[Rick Courtright]

I'm looking at buying an older 85 Subaru wagon, and was wondering if
anyone had a laundry list of Subaru-specific peculiarities to be aware

Hi,

Engine seals (ALL of 'em on the front**), water pump and timing belt:
t-belt should be changed out at 50-60k mile intervals (Subaru originally
spec'ed 60k miles, then changed on at least some earlier models to
around 50k) and this is the perfect time to renew all the seals since
you've done 90% of the labor just to get that far. Many suggest a new
water pump at this time--my water pumps usually last thru at least two
t-belt cycles.

** Front seals to replace: cam seals, 1 per side, oil pump O-rings on
back of pump and small seal on front, front crankshaft main seal.

Also many find the life of Subie radiators to be in the neighborhood of
100k miles before they start to clog. If you look at www.radiators.com
you should find a twin row unit to replace the standard single row
(non-turbo) factory unit. Highly recommend going this route.

Rick