Date:         Fri, 26 Dec 2003 12:08:19 -0500
Reply-To:     David Brodbeck <gull@GULL.US>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         David Brodbeck <gull@GULL.US>
Subject:      Re: oil in coolant-cracked head?
In-Reply-To:  <001701c3cbd0$b80e8020$0101a8c0@launchmodem.com>
Content-Type: TEXT/PLAIN; charset=US-ASCII

> > So I have found that I have grease in my coolant,
> > inside of the overflow tank cap is coated with it, and
> > if I drive it more than 20 miles, I will have coolant
> > coming out the top of the overflow tank. So I am
> > wondering what the collective wisdom of the list
> > thinks would cause this to happen, cracked head, or
> > other problem?

Cracked head or a bad head gasket.  You won't know which it is until
you've taken the heads off and inspected them.  A leakdown test might tell
you which cylinder is the culprit, but it might be better to do both heads
while you're at it, since the other may not be far behind.

You really can't limp a Vanagon along with this problem, as you're finding
out; the gases collect in the radiator and push the coolant out.


David Brodbeck, N8SRE
'82 Volkswagen Diesel Westfalia
'94 Honda Civic Si -- For Sale
'86 Volvo 240DL wagon