96 Legacy problems (pressure in radiator)

ben5536ben5536 Member Posts: 3
edited March 2014 in Subaru
Hello, I have recently inherited a 96 legacy outback wagon 2.5. It runs great for a few minutes then the heater will go cold and antifreeze will start spewing out of the overflow. I noticed that even if I run it a short time, it builds up radiator pressure even when cold. (alot). There is no antifreeze in the oil or vice versa. Any ideas????? Thank you, B

Comments

  • xwesxxwesx Member Posts: 17,515
    Blown head gasket(s) for sure and it sounds like it is rather significant, considering the amount of air/combustion gases being forced into the system. You can run a compression test to likely determine which cylinder(s) is affected, but replacing both gaskets would be the best way to go.

    This is an inexpensive DIY repair, but runs between $1800 and $2200 for a shop. I have done it before; let me know if you are interested in getting an idea of what is involved.
    2018 Subaru Crosstrek, 2014 Audi Q7 TDI, 2013 Subaru Forester, 2013 Ford F250 Lariat D, 1976 Ford F250, 1969 Chevrolet C20, 1969 Ford Econoline 100
  • paisanpaisan Member Posts: 21,181
    It could also be an air bubble in the top of the engine. I'd start with back-filling the engine from the upper radiator hose and take it from there.

    -mike
    Motorsports and Modifications Host
This discussion has been closed.