2.5 v6 head gasket or not opinions?

I have an 01 freelander,60k just.
Symptoms:

loss of coolant, constant topping off.

So today I figure I will get the spanners out and find out whats happening.
I check the coolant this morning and all is ok, pink and dandy.
I check the oil, all looks ok again.

No visible leaks around engine from above or below.
I remove the inlet manifold chamber and peer through between the inlet manifold and the V void; to the right near the stat has coolant in it.

Remove fuel rail, alternator, inlet manifolds etc.

Now the inlet manifold gasket has cracks in it near the bottom right and left hand water ways. Left side looks quite perished.

Now the head gasket has coolant settled along it, perhaps just the coolant tracking along?

I removed plugs and they are exactley as they should be, nice and clean.

My question is this: do you think its the inlet manifold gasket? or maybe the head gasket has had it?

would you pull the head and check while it is stripped down guys? If so can i do it without the timing tools etc.

thanks for your help I await your opinions.

Mine had water in the 'v void'. this was coming from the thermostat housing and the elbow next to it. They are pushed into the block and seal with 'O' rings, but the plastic cracks around the 'O' rings and leak. I had to replace the thermostat housing, the elbow, the clips and 'O' rings on the pipe to the pump and the 'O' rings for the elbow and housing. Unfortunately you will have to replace your inlet gaskets aswell

Ianda12 is spot on, we have repaired many of these leaks it is best to replace all the above items, it is unlikley it will be the head gasket, allso take off the timing cover and check the coolant pump is not leaking allso, and dont forget to use the Havoline Etended Life coolant.

Thermostat housing gives those symptoms.
Mite also be worth checking carpets as it could also be heater matrix as well.

thanks guys it was the cause, after replacing said components all seems well leak wise. However other problems are now with me...see my other thread.