yellow gunk under oil cap

checked under the oil cap today on my 96 grand prix se for some odd reason and seen that it was caked it this yellow gunk. I cleaned it up and got what i could see anywhere else. I have read numerous things on this happening cause of condensation and then there are the peope that say its a bad head gasket. I have not noticed any coolant level change that im aware of but i dont usually look at it that often. My girlfriend drives the car about 1.5 miles to work one way and then back home and thats about all the car goes. Once in awhile I will drive it for awhile if i have the chance. Just wondering what it could be. I can not afford to have another engine or something put in.

Condensation is the issue causing the yellow gunk! If you don't drive the car long distances, at least 12 miles or you do only short trips this is a common problem. Change the oil frequently (every 3k miles) and you won't have any issues with the car.

One thing you may want to check is the PCV and make sure it is operating properly. May not be properly ventilating the crankcase.

GTP Dad is correct.

I will the 3rd the first two opinions. The car isn't being driven far enough to burn off the condensation that occurs as the metal in the engine warms and cools. This condensation turns the oil into the yellowish sludge you're seeing.

That being said, the engine in your car is known for having an intake gasket issue that leak coolant into the oil, so keep a close eye on coolant level. If this leak develops and you let it go, lower end bearings and head gaskets will be in your near future.

How long would it take for the coolant in my res. to go down noticably? So far it seems as if it stays the same hot or cold.

It could take several days for you to notice it. However, if you check the oil and it looks like chocolate milk then you have a leaking intake gasket. If you have a leaking head gasket you may notice a change in performance or you may notice a plume of steam from the exhaust. At this point I would just keep close check on the oil and keep on driving.

I forgot to mention that the fan is wired so its always on. Was like that when i got the car. the coolant level was low but hasnt gotten any lower over the past week. I turned the fan off and let the car warm up to a warmer temp and the coolant level rose up more. I am pretty sure the problem was just not getting warmed up enough but just to be sure i am having it looked at in a couple days. Thanks for your help.