Head Gasket?

bossvt · Post by **bossvt** » 29 Mar 2005, 06:34

I'm getting coolant in the engine oil.

I realize the most likely problem is the head gasket. But I'm wondering if there are any other scenarios that could cause this problem?

The car is a 1998 V70 T5 and it only has 67K miles on it. The car runs fine. Does anyone know the negative ramifications of not fixing the head gasket immediately?

Thanks in advance.

White850Turbo · Post by **White850Turbo** » 29 Mar 2005, 06:39

You mean that you're seeing oil and coolant mixed in the overflow tank? This is usually caused by deteriation of the barrier between the oil cooler and and the radiator core. Replacing the radiator should fix the problem. The only reason you would see a bad head gasket at anywhere near that mileage is if the car overheated.

bossvt · Post by **bossvt** » 29 Mar 2005, 06:46

There may be oil in the overflow tank, I can't say for sure. However I do see a crusty white residue on the dip stick, which I think indicates coolant in the engine oil.

White850Turbo · Post by **White850Turbo** » 29 Mar 2005, 07:27

The white foamy stuff on the dipstick occurs from colder weather and short trips. It's just condensation. Nothing to worry about. It happens to all the Volvos. You wouldn't believe how many people freaked out and posted something on the VS forums because they had white foamy stuff on their dipsticks.

bossvt · Post by **bossvt** » 29 Mar 2005, 09:45

That's a relief

Thanks for sharing your knowledge!

TuHandy · Post by **TuHandy** » 29 Mar 2005, 22:15

Also, keep a very close eye on your overflow level. If you see it slowly disappearing and no puddles under the car. That would be a very good clue that your head gasket is bad, especially if you still are seeing the white foam on the dipstick.