Possible head gasket problem

Post Thu Mar 31, 2005 9:04 pm

Hi
i have been a bit paranoid about my 325i drinking water. i have kept an eye on it for the last week or so and there doesn't seem to be much drop in level in the reservoir (although maybe a millimeter or 2) but after a drive this evening (quite a hard drive once the car had properly warmed up) i had a look in the reservoir and noticed a small amount of 'milky' fluid on the top, although this could also be lots of tiny air bubbles. the oil filler cap is clean and with no signs of anything on that. could this be a sign of head gasket trouble? would an emissions test confirm this? and if it is what kind of costs could i be running into?
Thanks
James

Post Thu Mar 31, 2005 9:33 pm

Check the oil for a mayo like substance. This is normally a sign.

I would back flush the cooling system as this is easy, as this will clean the system and then you can rule out manky water. When replacing fluid use an appropriate coolant which protects the radiator etc.

Hope this helps

Post Thu Mar 31, 2005 9:41 pm

there is no mayo like substance in the oil, when u say back-flush what do u mean? drain and refill?
Thanks

Post Fri Apr 01, 2005 7:32 am

325icoupe wrote:there is no mayo like substance in the oil, when u say back-flush what do u mean? drain and refill?
Thanks

Disconnect the top and bottom radiator hoses. The stick a hose on full blast into one end at a time. Do this until the water coming out is clear.

I also believe this can be done on the block using the same method. Basically your just pumping water round the system, clearing it out.

There are chemicals you can use, but unless its really bad I would just use water. Then reattach the hoses. Refill system with good quality coolant.

Cheers

Post Fri Apr 01, 2005 1:26 pm

ok. i will give that a go over the weekend, thanks. can i definatly do it on the block does anyone know?