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My subaru that is going into the workshop to be fixed is a subaru B4 2001 model (engine code is ej208dwdbe). With quite possibly one less main bearing than designed.

Now i was just wondering if any knows any specifics about this engine. Its the twin turbo model. From what i have heard from various mechanics the jap import GT's from around the same time were open deck, cast piston type engines. Now subaru have told me that mine is semi-closed deck with forged pistons. Does anyone know for sure, or do i just wait until its apart and find out. Because at the moment in thinking about putting a low ks STI short motor instead of a brand new B4 replacement, because they are probably around the same prices ($3500ish) and if i go the STI route i will probably have some left over bits to sell, and in theory would end up with a stronger engine.

Does anyone know anymore about this because im hearing alot of different things when i speak to different people.

hi. Dont be foole the b4's reputation of bieng a "weak" engine. They are quiet strong. Just be surat you have done a main bearing and not a tappet as they can sound similar and o happen to shat themselves on these engines. As for engine type, im pretty sure that its semi-closed deck. But do correct me if you know otherwise. the cost of doing mains isnt that deer, but that all depends on the mechanics and the labour rate. It shouldnt takm bugger all to pull the engine, and about the same to part it and find out whats wrong.
Cheers Al

it was a rod bearing not a main that went in the end. So i will be rebuilding the engine which is semi-closed deck with cast (not forged) pistons. Which i understood to be a bit strange with a car that runs as much boost as a b4... but hey i guess subaru did it for some reason.

http://gophermb.kicks-ass.org/images/mattims/B4/

Heres a few pics of the engine in bits .. major bits still of at machine shop but you get that.

G, that looks like fun matt. Hope to see her back on the road again soon.

Well.. seeing as it was a 2 week job for the mechanics and its been there a month already. I'd say ill get it back in another 2 weeks or so. Im so glad i took it to them to rebuild cause there just soo much quicker than me. I could of taken a month of work and done it myself and come out quicker and cheaper. Not that im getting pissed of with the mehcanics at all.