Subaru Repair: Oil Leak, impreza outback sport, separator plate

Question
I have an oil leak in my 1999 Impreza Outback Sport 2.2L. It seems to be in the back of the block and I plan on repairing it myself. What seals/additional parts will I need before I start this process? While everything is apart should I replace all the seals?

Thanks,
Tanner

Answer
Hey Tanner,

There are three strong possibilities for the origin of the oil leak at the back of the engine.  The first and most likely is called the rear separator plate or oil baffle.  There is an updated plate offered by Subaru and you do not want to re-use the one on your car if it is plastic.  The separator plate  is sealed with a silicone sealer.  The second possibility is the rear main seal and be very careful installing it as if you put it in to far it will leak as the block is stepped.  The third possibility is the rear wrist pin access O-ring and is fairly straight forward.

Hope this helps

Justin