[Shore_Fisher]

So, changed the thermostat - No difference; Changed the water pump and radiator (With the timing belt, pulleys, etc, etc, at the same time) - No difference. Flushed system (As I wasn't sure I had got all of the old fluid/crap out) and re-filled with 50/50 coolant/distilled water - No difference.

Actually, there was a small change - The engine seems to run with one or two cylinders missing for a few seconds after I start it. But it idles fine, runs good - Just gradually looses coolant and temperatures start fluctuating wildly if I let the level get down too far.

I have been religiously checking the oil for water on the dip stick and seeing nothing, but I looked a little closer into the rocker covers and I can see some whitish gunk in there which I take to be coolant in the oil. Is it normal to not see evidence of water on the stick, or when the oil is changed?

Anyway, I'm now running to work and back and adding about a pint of coolant a day. Temperature is rock-steady near the middle of the gauge if I keep it well topped off. I'm now planning the next steps. Would appreciate any thoughts on likelihood of being able to fix with just a head gasket change? Or is it more likely that I have warped/cracked something?

Any comments appreciated. And any checks I can make to help diagnose would be really welcomed.

Ed