Subaru headgasket question

A blown head gasket may be the cause of overheating. It could of course be other things too, like a nonfunctioning thermostat, fans, etc.

If you start the car cold with the radiator cap off, does it belch or bubble as it runs? This is an indication of leak from the combustion chambers into the water jacket.

Were the fans operating when you did your assessment of the temperature?

I tried to check the value at

but dont really know what a 96 OBW is. I suspected it might be Outback Wagon, but didnt find them earlier than

2000.

At any rate, with that mileage and with an engine problem, you aren't looking at much value. Likely less than $500, at a wild guess.

Were the fans operating when you did your assessment of the temperature?

Yes. the fans were operation. Thanks for you time and response. Ric

The fans were operating. Thanks for the time and response. Ric

Okay, then check to be sure the thermostat is opening. Also check to see if the radiator is blocked, as with grass clippings, leaves, waste paper, etc.

If you have good fan operation, a free radiator (inside and out), a functioning water pump, and a functioning thermostat, then you have to start looking at internal engine issues.

Have you done a compression test, vaccumm test or a leak down test? this will tell you the condition of the top end and if you have a blown head gasket. Any water in oil? Is it milky, and smoke coming form exhust? Any visible leaks underneath the car? Water pump working (Not leaking or the bearing is not making a whinning sound) and the themostate opening? Water jackets leaking? Any of these questions should be considered when trying to trobleshoot an overheating problem.

Have you done a compression test, vaccumm test or a leak down test? this will tell you the condition of the top end and if you have a blown head gasket. Any water in oil? Is it milky, and smoke coming form exhust? Any visible leaks underneath the car? Water pump working (Not leaking or the bearing is not making a whinning sound) and the themostate opening? Water jackets leaking? Any of these questions should be considered when trying to trobleshoot an overheating problem.

Thanks to all!

Please let us know what you find, rajp. Feedback on issues like this help us all.

I certainly will!