'97 Outback Fabricated in July '96

[L.Michael]

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2013/11/photo_zpsa813b68d-1.jpg

I'm trying to determine what my original engine was, and if I should replace the computer or not. Usually a July model wouldn't be the next year yet, so it puts my '97 OBW right on the cusp, and I have to wonder if I am running the '98 donor engine with the '96 HLA computer. The following is all I have left of the original engine for reference..

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2012/08/061d1d37-1.jpg

[rkrenicki]

Take a picture of the VIN plate on the drivers front strut pillar. That will have all of the information needed to properly identify the cars bits.

[86bratman]

Post a picture of the pistons from the original engine, that'll tell us which type ej25 is in there.

If you mean the picture is all you have, then do you remember if the pistons had a large squarish dish in the middle or if they were almost flat on top.

[L.Michael]

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2012/08/4a957af1-1.jpg

[86bratman]

It's a 97-99 ej25d

I also noticed the VIN in the first post, the V in the last segment indicates it's a 97 model year.