Introduction and question
 

Hello, new member here.

I'm currently leasing an '04 WRX wagon, but the lease ends in April.
I've decided to go (mostly) car-less this summer, and maybe try to get my Subaru EJ25 powered '70 Beetle up and running so I can use that.

But then I talked to a friend of mine who just bought an SVX cheap..... :o

From what I could see it's in great condition. I don't have the spec yet, but will have details soon.

The only (known) problem right now is that the oil dipstick keeps on popping out. He thinks it's because the PCV valve is stuck.

So...I'm seriously considering this car (assuming the dipstick thing is not because of excessive blow-by).

I've done some research and found that the transmission and wheelbearings are the main failure points on the SVX's... is this true ?

Are there any other obvious problems I should look for ?

I understand there are FWD and AWD versions available, does anybody have a link to the complete (North American) model line up ?

Thanks !

Rob.

the dip stick is extremely common, the wheel bearings, brakes, and a few other things tend to need care, but over all they are a plesant car to drive and a wonderful machine to own. you would be pleased with the purchase, i went the opposite way as you and went from SVX to Impreza wagon but the SVX is a FAR more refined car.

Thanks man, so what is the cause for the dipstick issue ?
Is it the PCV valve sticking ?

Rob.

PCV valve replacement cured dipstick pop-up in my teal (the silver is due for same). Neither car consumes a measurable amount of oil between changes. Prevailing wisdom is that replacing the dipstick O-ring is also a good idea.

Here's a pretty comprehensive specs page:
http://www.cars101.com/subaru_svx.html

Good luck.

dcb

Changing the PCV Valve
 

Here's the link to the how-to for the PCV Valve. This should help.

http://www.subaru-svx.net/photos/user.php?How-To|14272

Fixed your post. Click here to see the How-To for the PCV valve.

A new dipstick O-ring fixed my pop-up problem. It's been said by others here that Subaru PCV valves rarely go bad.

The dipstick issue is a very worn O-Ring on the top of it. You can get a new one for $1.00 and the problem will be gone. I replaced my PCV valve and it still poped up, so replaced the O-Ring and the problem was gone.

The part number for the PCV valve is #11810AA000 Good luck with the project. :)

If the car you're looking at is a Canadian car it is AWD with all the options except security. Subaru Canada only brought in the top of the line model.

Unless the Canadian car came from the US. :rolleyes: :D :D

I bought my svx with 126k miles, and it runs absolutely perfect. It has the origional trans, though i'm going to be putting in a trans cooler as preventative maintenance. The reason the trans goes is due to overheating. Other than a dent on the sun roof and a couple scratches, the car is in generally perfect condition. Very nice to cruise in, i'm taking it from PA to TX this summer, 1600 mile drive, and i really look forward to it. Car is super-comfortable, very smooth riding at high speeds. Good luck with your purchase if you decide to go for it, i'm looking for another for my girl, as she rode in mine and loves it.