EJ251 Head gaskets rebuild failure

[m0rjjj]

Hi everyone.

Recently I was doing a full engine rebuild for my 2002 Outback 2.5. I am a complete novice in engine rebuilds and this was my first engine.
I was advised that I should use aftermarket MLS head gaskets and so I ordered the kit and installed it. I reused my head bolts.
Both my heads were machined by the machine shop, and the valves were reseated. The short block was also professionally rebuilt.
I put everything together and followed the factory manual, but on the first start, the engine ejected all oil through the right head gasket
Back to square one...

I just want to ask experienced builders, do you torque down MLS head gaskets differently? And should I upgrade or just use OEM ones?
I know I should've done more research, but I guess you live and you learn from your own mistakes.
I also noticed that one of the bolts was acting strangely - I couldn't hand-tighten it. Maybe my old bolts were stretched.

 

[Ecmbuster]

You need a service manual and find out why that one bolt "acted strange".
New head bolts are a better idea.
Check all the threads for damage on the block and there is a pattern to head bolt torque.
OEM gaskets are the best. Measuring head and deck for flatness is a priority.
And the model is?

 

[m0rjjj]

Outback Limited 2.5

 

[Ecmbuster]

See if these fit:

Index of /Auto/Japan/Subaru/Legacy_Outback/2002

 

[m0rjjj]

I have a similar manual. I followed the same process, but I think it's for OEM head gaskets, not for the MLS ones.

Extracted from the manual:
Tighten cylinder head bolts.
(1) Apply a coat of engine oil to washers andbolt threads.
(2) Tighten all bolts to 29 N·m (3.0 kgf-m, 22ft-lb) in alphabetical sequence.Then tighten all bolts to 69 N·m (7.0 kgf-m, 51ft-lb) in alphabetical sequence.
(3) Back off all bolts by 180° first; back them offby 180° again.
(4) Tighten bolts (a) and (b) to 34 N·m (3.5kgf-m, 25 ft-lb).
(5) Tighten bolts (c), (d), (e) and (f) to 15 N·m(1.5 kgf-m, 11 ft-lb).
(6) Tighten all bolts by 80 to 90° in alphabetical

 

[Ecmbuster]

Head gaskets can not be reused
"MLS head gaskets" search offers .....

MLS Head Gaskets & Head Gaskets | Fel-Pro Gaskets

Fel-Pro head gaskets set the standard for a superior seal. Depend on PermaTorque® MLS head gaskets, PermaTorque® and PermaTorque® SD gaskets for your repair job.

www.felpro.com

Solving subaru 2.5l head gasket problems with Fel-pro

The Subaru EJ-series engine has been a staple of their vehicles since 1996, but the gaskets can be leak-prone. Luckily, Fel-Pro is here to help.

www.felpro.com

If unsure, contact MLS for their instructions.
New water pump, coolant and timing belt kit correct?
Valve adjustments?

Subaru Recalls: a list of recalls on various model- Outback, Crosstrek, Forester, Impreza, Legacy, WRX, STI, BRZ, Legacy, Tribeca, XV Crosstrek, Baja..

research Subaru recalls and TSBs over the years. Outback, Ascent, Forester, XV Crosstrek, Impreza, BRZ, WRX, STI, Legacy, Tribeca, Baja. An Unofficial research website.

www.cars101.com

 

[m0rjjj]

Yes, I installed everything new, I only resued the oil pump. Thank you for the link, I used different head gaskets, but I will check out Fel-pro