1990 Legacy problems...questions...

[92_rugby_subie]

So my sister bought a 1990 FWD Legacy (base as base model can get) and we knew it had some issues, and are working to get those worked on, but I have a few questions, since I mainly know about my EA, kinda unfamiliar about EJ's

 

So heres the problems known:

- CTS (Coolant Temp Sensor) - Will not start when cold, must hold RPMs at 2-2500 for about a minute to make it not fall on its face and die.

- Oil leaks - Oh boy... Oil leaks out the wazoo.

- Needs new struts

- Failed DEQ, looks like needs new o2 sensor (this may be one of my problems below) but ran denatured alcohol through and it passed.

- Interior panels need work

 

So my problem is:

When going up hills, I have to push the gas in more, and I get a lot of stuttering/chugging every couple of seconds, but I dont seem to get this any other time. Wont be winning any drag races. (Bad o2 sensor?)

TERRIBLE MPGs... The car was bought as a commuter for my sister, who doesnt need AWD, so it doesnt really matter that its FWD... We expected at least 30mpg highway... She commutes on the highway but is only seeing about 18mpg... total. (Bad o2 sensor?)

 

Everything else seems to be running fine, doesnt overheat, no codes popping up, headlights are :mad: terrible compared to Neds 6000k HIDs.

 

We have plans of resealing the motor and dropping it back in, only has like 170k on it... its still a baby in the EJ22 world.

[danbennett2u]

I would probably start with some basic tune up items:

 

Air filter

Fuel Filter

Plugs\Wires

 

And definitely get that 02 replaced.

 

That stuff alone may fix the problems of the flat spots under load and the bad mpg.

[wtdash]

Hi,

In addition to the above, if you pull the engine- depending on if it's an AT or 5-speed, ensure you disconnect the flexplate from the TC 1st.

 

- Cam (front and rear) and crank seals, reseal rear separator (or get updated new part and bolts), MAYBE the rear main (don't touch if not leaking!), oil pump O-ring, valve covers, new oil sender, and read up on here for other stuff.

 

-FWD and AWD are not the same when it comes to suspension and CV axles, among other things, so make sure you get FWD parts or double-check they're compatible.

 

- The headlights do suck on the '90-91 Legacy and there aren't any really good upgrade options....@ least from my looking for my '90 wagon. Make sure you remove the yellowing/clouding, which usually helps some.

 

GL,

Td

[johnceggleston]

i would look for open vac hoses first. there is a large one, ~1 inch dia., that connects the plastic air intake to the PCV? and it is hard to see since it is underneath the plastic tubing. but if that is open it will be hard to start and will not idle without a lot of throttle.

 

or check the plastic ''T'' that is on the other end of that hose. i have seen them cracked.

 

good luck.

[92_rugby_subie]

Thank you!

 

I will check these items out and get back with my findings... hopefully its simple stuff..

[heartless]

i would look for open vac hoses first. there is a large one, ~1 inch dia., that connects the plastic air intake to the PCV? and it is hard to see since it is underneath the plastic tubing. but if that is open it will be hard to start and will not idle without a lot of throttle.

 

or check the plastic ''T'' that is on the other end of that hose. i have seen them cracked.

 

good luck.

 

And where can one get replacements for those particular pieces (both hoses and the fitting) I would like to replace mine as they are getting rather hard...

 

to the OP - yes - the O2 sensor will cause a lot of the terrible running, no power, horrid mpgs issues you are describing.

Start with the basics, an O2 sensor, and check those vacuum lines and you will see a dramatic improvement

When i changed mine out, i went from an average of 26-27 prior to it really getting bad, to 29-30mpg after changing it - WITH AWD. the FWD version should go more like 30-32 when tuned up right.