Milky oil filler cap

[baboonboy]

Whilst doing a quick once over on my V6 bongo I noticed that the inside of the oil filler cap has a milky substance on it! I'm aware that this may indicate a head gasket problem

I've previous had problems with the coolant system but this seems resolved now and haven't had any coolant loss over the last 6 months, I also replaced most of the coolant hoses and they seem to be fine. Got a low coolant alarm fitted too last summer. And had the whole system bled last summer as well.

I haven't noticed any problem with the engine but feel like I should get it checked out by a garage who now what they are doing. Any advice? I wonder whether I should clean the oil filler cap and then use as normal, checking to see if any milky residue appears again on the cap?

I'm based in stroud Gloucestershire and wondered if anyone knew of a local garage who would be able to determine if the head gasket has got a cracking and needs replacing .

Thanks in advance!

[rita]

How old is your vehicle and what is the millage recording.?

And what was the previous problems with the coolant system?..

[Bob]

There was a garage near Staverton, just under the M5, but don't know if they're still there.

[mikeWalsall]

Not a good thing ... but the cold weather / cold engine / short runs = condensation .. that can cause a build up of 'mayonnaise' in the cam cover ..

[Simon Jones]

V6's rarely suffer head gasket issues so it might be worth doing an oil and coolant change so you know you are starting with fresh fluids and then monitor the situation carefully.

[baboonboy]

How old is your vehicle and what is the millage recording.?

And what was the previous problems with the coolant system?..

Hi Rita,

It's a 1995 model but only done 90,000km, and is petrol/lpg.

Coolant hose that goes to the engine has split three times in two years and lost coolant on occasions. Although after the last time I got several of the hoses refitted and had no problems since with the hose into the engine or with coolant loss. Having checked them today they all look good, no signs of leakage, no bulging or swelling.

[baboonboy]

Not a good thing ... but the cold weather / cold engine / short runs = condensation .. that can cause a build up of 'mayonnaise' in the cam cover ..

Thanks Mike, interesting you say that as the bongo is left outside on my drive and as it's my only vehicle I do tend to do a lot of short runs.

I think I'll wipe it clean now and keep my eye on it!

Is there anyway a mechanic can check the head gasket without taking the engine apart?!

[baboonboy]

V6's rarely suffer head gasket issues so it might be worth doing an oil and coolant change so you know you are starting with fresh fluids and then monitor the situation carefully.

Oil and coolant were changed in the summer, but I don't know if the milky residue on the oil filler cap was there then. I didn't check it and I doubt the garage checked it when they replaced various coolant hoses and bled the system, refilled oil and coolant. Hmmm...

[weebrian]

Try these guys in Worcester, they know their Bongos inside out. Also a great source of well priced spares.
http://www.worcestersmobilemechanic.co.uk

[rita]

baboonboy , from what you have said, personally I would do an Oil and Filter change give the oil filler cap a good clean and check the engine breathing system.

Good Luck.