directly swap a 2000 subaru outback 2.5 into what yrs

Is it the Phase 2 2.5 SOHC (EJ251)? Phase 1 is DOHC 2.5. There are several models that used the EJ251.. i.e. 99-04 Forester can swap complete motor iirc. Phase 1 is scattered, usually late 90's early 00's. There is a list somewhere for that Phase 1 info.

Read this,. I hope it helps. By the way, after 2010, the head gaskets were redesigned with a stronger system and have not experienced the same failure rate of the earlier engines. The new multi layered head gaskets deck are much more reliable and robust. The SOHC engine is very good and more simply designed than the earlier DOHC which had many problems. Good luck. http://www.ultimatesubaru.org/forum/topic/5011-difference- between-phase-1-2-engines/

I found that link and it's not the one I had in mind. Your HG hubbub is 10 years off and isn't even relevant to the question. Justin, this link suggests ANY 99-04 Phase 2 (SOHC) will swap as long as you keep your intake and sensors, etc. http://www.subaruoutback.org/forums/110-gen-2-2000- 2004/23983-02-outback-wagon-engine-swap.html -------- Another good resource with a possible difference to be aware of: http://www.subaruoutback.org/forums/110-gen-2-2000- 2004/49713-what-engine-will-fit-my-2001-outback.html

Interesting Walt, you may want to peruse this article,. 2000-2009 Subaru Outback vehicles had head gaskets issues,. I don't know what you are referring to when you said that was over 10 years ago. Again, i merely pointed out that the person looking for an alternative should be aware of the head gaskets problems between 2000 and 2009. Your suggestions of getting a 99-2004 engine still has HG problems. http://www.licmotorsports.com/blog/2014/01/30/dreaded-subaru- head-gasket-issue