1987 Subaru GL Wagon Repair Manual

The 1987 Subaru GL Wagon is a versatile 4-wheel drive station wagon featuring a 1.8L horizontally-opposed 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission, dual-range transfer case, and robust suspension system. This comprehensive repair manual covers maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, component replacement, and service specifications for the EA82 engine platform. Below are essential sections for routine maintenance, engine repair, transmission service, electrical systems, and troubleshooting.

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical data for the 1987 Subaru GL Wagon including engine, transmission, and chassis specifications.

Routine Maintenance

Scheduled maintenance procedures and intervals for optimal vehicle performance.

1. Oil Change: Every 3,000 miles - Use 10W-30 conventional oil
2. Spark Plugs: Replace every 30,000 miles - NGK BPR6ES
3. Air Filter: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed
4. Timing Belts: Replace every 60,000 miles (critical maintenance)
5. Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 miles using ethylene glycol coolant
6. Brake Fluid: Replace every 2 years - DOT 3 fluid

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before performing electrical work. Use jack stands when lifting vehicle.

Engine Repair

EA82 engine service procedures including timing belt replacement and valve adjustment.

1. Timing Belt Replacement: Remove covers, align timing marks, replace both belts simultaneously
2. Valve Adjustment: Cold engine adjustment to 0.010" intake, 0.012" exhaust
3. Carburetor Adjustment: Idle speed 750 rpm, mixture screw 2.5 turns out
4. Compression Test: Should read 140-160 psi across all cylinders
5. Oil Pump Service: Replace seal during timing belt service

CAUTION! EA82 engines are interference engines - improper timing belt installation can cause valve damage.

Transmission & Drivetrain

• Transmission Fluid: 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil, 3.7 quarts capacity
• Transfer Case: Shares fluid with transmission
• Clutch Adjustment: Free play 0.4-0.8 inches at pedal
• 4WD Operation: Engage only on slippery surfaces, disengage for dry pavement
• CV Joints: Inspect boots regularly, replace if torn
• Differential: Front and rear require periodic fluid changes

Brake System

Front disc brake and rear drum brake service procedures.

Front Brakes: Rotor minimum thickness 0.866", pad replacement when worn to 1/8"

Rear Brakes: Drum diameter 7.87", shoe replacement when lining worn to 0.039"

Bleeding Sequence: Right rear, left rear, right front, left front. Master Cylinder: Bench bleed before installation. Parking Brake: Adjust at equalizer under vehicle.

Suspension & Steering

MacPherson strut front suspension and rear trailing arm system maintenance.

1. Strut Replacement: Compress spring before disassembly
2. Ball Joints: Check for play, replace if movement exceeds 0.125"
3. Tie Rod Ends: Replace if steering play detected
4. Wheel Bearings: Adjust with spindle nut, 17 ft-lbs + backoff 30°
5. Alignment Specs: Toe-in 0.08", camber -0.5° to +0.5°

Tip: Always replace strut mounts when replacing struts.

Electrical System

12-volt electrical system diagnosis and repair procedures.

1. Battery: Group 26R, 450 CCA minimum
2. Alternator: 55 amp output, test at 13.5-14.5 volts
3. Starter: 1.4 kW direct drive type
4. Fuse Box: Located under dashboard, 10-20 amp fuses
5. Headlights: Sealed beam type H4656
6. Distributor: Electronic ignition, air gap 0.012-0.016"

WARNING! Disconnect battery before electrical repairs to prevent shorts.

Fuel System

Hitachi carburetor service and fuel delivery system maintenance.

Fuel Pump: Mechanical type, 2.5-3.5 psi pressure. Carburetor Rebuild: Clean all passages, replace gaskets and accelerator pump. Fuel Filter: Replace every 15,000 miles. Choke Adjustment: Set for proper cold start operation.

Cooling System

Radiator, thermostat, and water pump maintenance procedures.

Thermostat: Opens at 180°F. Radiator Cap: 13 psi pressure rating. Coolant Capacity: 7.4 quarts with heater. Water Pump: Replace during timing belt service. Hoses: Inspect for cracks and soft spots annually.

Exhaust System

Manifold, catalytic converter, and muffler service information.

Exhaust Manifold: Cast iron, prone to cracking - inspect regularly. Catalytic Converter: Federal emissions requirement. Muffler: Single inlet/outlet design. Exhaust Pipe: 1.75" diameter. Always use new gaskets during reassembly.

Troubleshooting Guide

Special Tools: Timing belt tension gauge, valve adjustment tool set, CV joint boot installer

Parts Sources: Subaru dealerships, aftermarket suppliers, salvage yards for discontinued parts