Eng oil analysis question

[RS Dude]

I have had a minor coolant leakage problem for some time now. I cannot find any evidence of leakage from any external components. My conclusion is perhaps my head gasket is going bad, though I have no signs of evidence of this, such as, white smoke from exhaust.

My question: Will an engine oil analysis (from Blackstone) be 'definitive' proof of head gasket failure if they find any glycol in the engine oil?

 

[541joseph]

If you are getting any amount of coolant in your oil you'll also be getting oil in your coolant. And your oil will turn milky. Do you change your own oil?

 

[RS Dude]

If you are getting any amount of coolant in your oil you'll also be getting oil in your coolant. And your oil will turn milky. Do you change your own oil?

I do change my oil.

From visual inspection, I can see no cross contamination in either the oil or coolant.

 

[hearno]

I contacted them asking the same question and they said, yes, they can tell if you ask them to look for it.

 

[541joseph]

I do change my oil.

From visual inspection, I can see no cross contamination in either the oil or coolant.

How long ago was your water pump changed? Miles/years

 

[RS Dude]

How long ago was your water pump changed? Miles/years

Pump and timing belt have 110,000 miles and were done about 10 yrs ago. Also, I had TWO ! head gasket replacements, both covered under the recall campaign.

 

[Buckaroo]

As a starting point, suggest you replace radiator cap if you have not done so in last 2 years. If it relieves too close to operating pressure, it can cause slight coolant loss over time. If you have the tool, best to test it to confirm if it is a problem but, if not, just replace it as it is cheap.

Buckaroo

 

[RS Dude]

As a starting point, suggest you replace radiator cap if you have not done so in last 2 years. If it relieves too close to operating pressure, it can cause slight coolant loss over time. If you have the tool, best to test it to confirm if it is a problem but, if not, just replace it as it is cheap.

Buckaroo

Cap is only 1.5 yrs. old. New thermostat also 1.5 yrs. old.

 

[Buckaroo]

Typical headgasket integrity tests include

1. Looking for combustion gasses in the radiator headspace

Super price on UView 560000 at ToolTopia.com

2. Compression test/cylinder leak down test
3. Measure cooling system pressure w/ gauge - rapid increase after starting or erratic pressure indicates issue

Other less accurate indicators -

1. Remove cap from radiator and run engine - look for bubbles coming to surface of fluid,
2. Remove oil dipstick and hold tip to open flame - should smoke but not catch fire - if it does, indicates presence of unburned fuel.
3. Put drop of oil from dipstick on hot exhaust manifold, should smoke - spatter/boiling indicates presence of water.

Buckaroo

 

[541joseph]

Pump and timing belt have 110,000 miles and were done about 10 yrs ago. Also, I had TWO ! head gasket replacements, both covered under the recall campaign.

I'd say its time for a water pump I bet the weep hole is leaking. They are 90k mile parts at best and about 5 years. I'll bet head gaskets are fine just time for timing belt and water pump