I noticed that my coolant level was below the min mark so booked it in to be checked out.

Bad news, head gasket gone. Only had the car a month and the previous owner had spent lots of money recently on engine work.

So I have the choice of rebuilding my engine or buying a new one.

My question is, what other impreza engines will fit a MY97 UK Turbo 2000 ? I`m thinking one from a WRX/STI but have no idea what would be involved.

Still, it`s an oportunity to put a bigger turbo on now

Gutted to say the least............... But not giving up....

 

Although the headgaskets are expensive to do (I normally charge about £600) it's cheaper than an engine, unless that is you want to go forged at the same time? What do you want to achieve, and what is your budget? Also you say that a lot has been spent on the engine, what was done?

 

I want to take advantage of this situation and put in a better engine with stronger internals, to cope with a bigger turbo. Not looking to go too mad at this stage but would like to achieve between 350-400bhp.

I cannot remember what work was carried out before I bought the car, will go through the folder I have tonight and find out.

The only trouble with keeping my existing engine is that I don`t know what other damage has been done. I`m not on a budget, time is more important for me so if I can find a suitable engine that has already been rebuilt with stronger internals then great.

 

On 18/12/2008 the following work was carried out by SL Garage Services in Southampton;

Removed engine and replaced;
Heads
Head set
Head bolts
Cambelt
Oil
Oil Filter
Anti Freeze
Gauge Sensor
Temp Sensor

 

I assume they removed the heads and refitted them. That being just a couple of months ago I'd say it's a bogged job and SL garage should fix it for no additional charge.