Coolant in oil

gmbwrenchn · #1 03-03-2006, 06:21 PM

How many different places can coolant get into the oil? Just replaced the head gasket and it looks like coolant is still getting into the oil. The car has seen extreem overheating, got the head milled, and new gaskets throughout.
Coolant level does not seem to be going down though. What are other possibilities. Thanks. 95 Grand Am, 110k miles, 2.3ltr.

skibum1111 · #2 03-03-2006, 08:42 PM

When you had the machine work done on the head, did you have it pressure tested? If so, and it was ok, its possible the block is cracked.

gmbwrenchn · #3 03-04-2006, 03:30 PM

No I didn't have that done. I told them it was over heated............thought they would have recommened that. Just changed the oil again 1 week after I did the head job. The oil was kinda thin and felt watery. Could there still have been coolant left in the engine from before? Did another compression check after replacing the head gasket. Before I replaced it 1) 180, 2) 163, 3) 170, 4) 180. After replacing it....... 1) 180, 2) 150, 3) 150, 4) 150. Any other tests I can do to verify? Thanks.

gmbwrenchn · #4 03-06-2006, 08:40 PM

Anyone care to comment on this?

GTP Dad · #5 03-07-2006, 09:36 AM

Unfortunately this sounds like a gasket sealing issue to me. If the compression was higher before you did the head work than it is now then the issue lies in the gasket not sealing properly. Compression should at least be equal to what it was before and if they shaved the head then the compression should be slightly higher than stock. You may end up removing the head again and replacing the gasket. I would also have it pressure tested. Keep tabs on the oil too.

gmbwrenchn · #6 03-07-2006, 09:37 PM

Thanks for replying. What is the likelihood of a cracked block? I don't know how else to install the gasket. Both surfaces were spotless clean, cleaned with thinner, gasket was installed "right" side up, used a quality Fel-pro gasket, torqued to specs. What else can do to insure a good seal???? Any other self home tests I can perform to pin point the problem? Thanks for the help.

indyram · #7 03-08-2006, 12:40 AM

To the oil problem could be if they or you didn't change the oil. Probably not a good seal like stated already. Have it pressure tested.

You may need to redo the gaskets, and this may require a new set. Be very careful taking them off and they may be alright. More than just using thinner on the gasket surface areas on the engine parts you may need to use a scraper of some sort and clean it up real good with emery cloth. Make sure to use a RTV sealant and don't over tighten them.

GTP Dad · #8 03-08-2006, 10:43 AM

One question, did you get the head bolts back in the same location as they were removed from. According to the book I have this is very important and could be your problem. I doubt you have a cracked block but a bad head is always a possibility.

gmbwrenchn · #9 03-08-2006, 06:44 PM

I bought a new set of bolts. Just today I took a peek at the head gasket between the block. It sure does look like it's wet!! God I HATE TO DO THIS JOB AGAIN!!!!!!!!!! But if it's going to need to be redone what precautionary measures should I take so it gets done right this time. 1) I know is to have the head pressure tested. What about preparing the block surface? I did scrape it real good and I made sure I didn't nick it. What else? Thanks so much for helping.

cudastang · #10 03-08-2006, 08:38 PM

If the leak is not too bad,try some block sealer in it..It worked for me a few times.Of course a few times it didnt....Just cant add antifreez to it..I leave the sealer in the the system for a few days,then drain it out,and WOOLA,alot work DONE!! And cheep!!

GTP Dad · #11 03-08-2006, 09:07 PM

Get a good straight edge and a feeler guage and check the block for flatness it shouldn't be out more than .003 of an inch in 6 inches or .006 across the full length of the block. Measure it diagonally. Make sure the surface is very clean or you will get a false reading.

If it is out more than that you will have to have the block resurfaced. Although check with the gasket dealer as they do make gaskets that are extra thick to take care of this. Also make sure that the machine shop that tests the head checks the head too.

Block sealer will work in some cases but I think your is too bad for it to work. Might be cheap but may be a waste of time.

POST REPLY TO THIS THREAD