Subaru ea81 engine

Types of Subaru EA81 Engines

The Subaru EA81 engine is one engine of the Subaru EA family of engines. The Subaru EA engines are air-cooled engines with belt-driven overhead valves. The EA engines are classified as small or large; small variants include the EA71, while large variants include the EA81 and EA82. The Subaru EA81 engine has several types, described in the following.

• Conventional Subaru EA81

  The typical implementation of the engine can be seen in the Subaru 4WD Sedan, Wagon, and Van models. While their production no longer exists, remnants of them can still be found in specific antique car marketplaces.

• EA81 with CVT Transmission

  Commonly found in the Subaru FF-1 model. This variant used a unique transmission system known as Controlled Variable Transmission, which helped enhance engine efficiency and performance. The exact functioning of this system still remains a mystery no one has been able to crack into today.

• Subaru EA82 Engine

  Though distinct from the EA81, some individuals might mistake the EA82 for being part of the same family. It is essential to note that, while sharing similarities like being an all-aluminum engine with belt-driven overhead valves and having a displacement of 1.8L (the same as the larger variants of its predecessors), there are notable differences. For instance, the turbocharged variant of this engine was solely designed for use by Subaru's sports wagon and coupe models.

Specifications and Maintenance of Subaru EA81 Engines

Understanding the specifications is really important in taking care of the Subaru EA81 engine properly. This is so as to avoid any form of damage that may arise as a result of not adhering to the required maintenance routine and the use of specified materials.

Some key specifications to note are as follows:

• The Subaru EA81 engine has a displacement of 1.8 liters (1772 cc) and boasts a power output ranging from 63 to 73 horsepower depending on which version of the engine one is using. This power is achieved at around 5,200 rpm. It also generates a torque of 130 to 140 Nm (96 to 103 lb-ft) at approximately 2,600 to 3,600 rpm.
• The engine employs a cast-iron engine block and an aluminum cylinder head construction. The cylinder head itself has 12 valves divided into 4 valves per cylinder, which, as earlier stated, can be either a pushrod configuration or an overhead valve configuration.
• The engine utilizes a single carburetor system (usually a Solex carburetor), although some variants may be equipped with fuel injection. Subaru fuel injection systems typically include a manifold, port, and electronic fuel injection.
• The engine used air-cooled and liquid cooling methods, with the latter being more common in automobiles and providing more efficient performance. The liquid cooling utilized a dedicated cooling system that comprised a radiator, water pump, thermostat, and cooling hoses to maintain optimal operating temperatures especially during demanding driving conditions.

Maintaining the Subaru EA81 engine will help prolong its lifespan, increase its resale value (if any), and ensure that it performs well. With that being said, here are a couple of maintenance tips for the Subaru EA81 engine:

• Regular oil changes, engine checks, and filter changes: The engine should be subjected to oil changes at regular intervals. The oil change method should also be applied to the air and fuel filters. If the engine is carburetted, the carburettas should be regularly cleaned and adjusted to ensure optimal fuel flow and combustion.
• Cooling system maintenance: This includes regularly checking the coolant level and condition, which should be free from any form of contamination to avoid engine overheating. Maintaining proper engine temperature is critical to optimal functioning. Thus, the radiator and other cooling system components should be periodically checked and cleaned.
• Operating within the engine’s limits: It’s important to know the limits of the engine, or better still, the manufacturer’s recommended limits, especially when it comes to the Subaru EA81’s engine speed and load. Overloading or high-speed driving can increase wear and tear. If high performance is required, it’s best to invest in the high-performance variants of the Subaru engine.

Scenarios

The Subaru EA engine is popular among car lovers and hobby mechanics. Subaru cars that use the EA engine are now classic cars. Enthusiasts use them for road trips and off-road adventures. Some Subaru enthusiasts fix other EA engines in their Subaru vehicles. This is because they prefer the engine's performance and power delivery. Also, the EA engine is easy to maintain. Its simple design makes it easy to check and service common parts like hoses, belts, and the cooling system.

Due to its accessibility, some mechanics take the maintenance a step further. They go into greater details and do more extensive servicing like replacing the timing belts and water pumps.

Subaru vehicles with the EA engine also make great daily drivers. Their fuel-efficient nature makes them ideal for long commuting distances. In urban settings with constant stops and starts, the engine's efficiency shines through. Car owners spend less on fuel compared to cars with more powerful engines. This allows them to save up and spend money on other hobbies.

Car rental services can also benefit from the Subaru EA81 engine. They can have some Subaru models (for example, the Subaru GL) with the EA engine in their fleet. Adventure seekers looking to rent an affordable vehicle for off-the-beaten-path exploration will find the Subaru EA81 engine perfect for their needs.

Another scenario where the Subaru EA engine is useful is small agricultural tasks. The Subaru engine's ability to function well under light loads makes it suitable for simple farm machinery like rotavators, tillers, and pumps. Some farmers use the Subaru engine to power water pumps that irrigate their small farms or power their tillers and other farm tools and equipment.

Choosing the right Subaru EA81 engine

When choosing a Subaru EA81 engine for sale, it is essential to look into its condition. A used Subaru EA81 engine's condition will determine how long it will last after purchase.

• Worn cylinder walls

  When assessing the engine's condition, start by inspecting the cylinder walls. Over time, the walls experience a typical wear pattern. New Subaru EA81 engines have very smooth walls. If the cylinder wall is rough, it gives off a loud and unusual noise when the engine runs. Also, if there is noticeable damage or roughness, consider moving on to a different engine option.

• Crankshaft damage

  A damaged crankshaft isn't just visible to the eye. Sellers often magnify images of the damaged area. When inspecting the engine closely, look for cracks and damages on the visible parts of the crankshaft. If the crankshaft is damaged, it can lead to further engine breakdowns in the near future.

• Timing belt

  Some 1980 Subaru engines come with a timing chain instead of a belt. Timing chains are known to last longer than belts. However, the timing belts need to be in good shape for the engine to function well. When inspecting the engine, check the timing belts for any cracks or damages. If the timing belt looks worn, it will have to be replaced sooner.

• Oil leaks

  When assessing the engine, check for any oil leaks. Worn gaskets or damaged seals often cause oil leaks. The leaks can lead to further engine damage and a loss of oil pressure. When buying an engine with leaks, constant oil top-ups will be necessary.

Choosing an engine with none of these issues can save the buyer money in the long run. However, choosing issues that seem minor now can cost a lot more in frequent repairs and engine breakdowns.

Subaru EA81 engine FAQ

Q1: What did the Subaru EA81 engine turbo achieve?

A1: The Subaru EA81 engine turbo was a pioneer in introducing forced induction into small displacement engines. It delivered a remarkable balance of power and efficiency for its time.

Q2: Why is the Subaru EA81 engine good?

A2: The Subaru EA81 engine is known for its durability, simplicity, and ability to provide reliable power output. Its design has made it relatively easy for mechanics to service and repair.

Q3: How much horsepower does an EA81 have?

A3: The Subaru EA81 engine produced approximately 68 to 70 horsepower in its standard configuration. The turbocharged variants could achieve more.

Q4: How long does an EA81 engine last?

A4: With proper maintenance and care, Subaru EA81 engines have been known to last up to 200,000 miles or more. Some may even exceed this mileage depending on driving conditions and regular servicing.