Hello misha and bmk,

Sorry I have not up dated sooner, I have been away working on some "banger and clankers", (diesel engines).

I have been able to find the problem that I was having with the car.

You responded to my posting, so I would like to share with you what it was.

Sorry no photographs ...

Hello gmtgmt,

Still could show equal wear on the tires, as the camber has not changed.

Alignment is a funny thing, I have a number of times had alignment problems.


I am sure you are aware that if the clearances of a gear or a bearing has changed, the will be increased friction on these parts ...

Hello gmtgmt,

How are you making out?
It maybe a silly suggestion, but if the rear tires are showing signs of wear, try checking the alignment of the rear axial.
A quick check, two people and a tape measure. Center to center of your wheel hubs.

Can't hurt.

Hello BKM,

Yes I have seen the PCV by jblackburn, very nicely done. I read the post before I started into checking the oil trap.

As for the leak down and water test, I have not done so as yet. I will have to get a pressure tester and if possible, the water test kit.

Thank-you very much for the ...

Thank-you again Misha.
I appreciate any information I can get.
No, there is no bubbling in the expansion tank.
I agree that the white vapour is steam, the amount of blue is very little, but is enough that it can be seen.
Oil loss does not seem to that noticeable.

Thank-you for your reply Misha

Engines I have worked on that have a leaking head gasket had signs of cross contamination. Having said that, I have never worked an engine with overhead camshaft. I have noticed in pictures of the head gasket is complex compared to engines I am used too.

Would there ...

Hello, name is David, first time Volvo owner.
I have just been given a 1999 v70xc AWD from my son in-law. It is a long story, so I will start nearing the end.

The problem is the white / blue vapours gradually increasing as the engine warms up to temperature, (three to five mins after starting ...