oil in the header tank

skunk98 · Jul 18, 2011

I've recently had my engine rebuilt after a serious overheating problem.After a few teething problems all seemed ok,but after checking the coolant level,found the coolant was oily.At first just thought it was residue from before so flushed it and refilled.Checked today and the header tank level was low again with oily residue in the coolant.I checked the oil level and that has stayed constant and doesn't look like water is getting into it.
Any ideas please?

ratty · Jul 18, 2011

skunk98 said:
I've recently had my engine rebuilt after a serious overheating problem.After a few teething problems all seemed ok,but after checking the coolant level,found the coolant was oily.At first just thought it was residue from before so flushed it and refilled.Checked today and the header tank level was low again with oily residue in the coolant.I checked the oil level and that has stayed constant and doesn't look like water is getting into it.
Any ideas please?

If it's only a light skimming of oil it could be the residue left in the coolant system from before the HG repair. As the coolant heats up it gradually washes it off the inside of the hoses/matrix's.

The Mad Hat Man · Jul 18, 2011

put a small amount of dishwasher liquid in the tank and run it for a day and then reflush it - the dishwasher liquid will clear the grease. Dont leave it in too long tho, coz its caustic.

Do NOT use powder

skunk98 · Jul 18, 2011

Cheers for the quick replies.Would never have thought of dishwasher liquid,pity I haveen't got one.The thing I'm concerned about more is the loss of coolant.Although there isn't any coolant on the floor or noticable leaks when running stationary.And at £13 for 5 ltrs of coolant could get expensive.

Davee · Jul 18, 2011

Are you getting any other signs or symptoms to go with the coolant loss ?
Usually you can smell anti freeze if you have a leak under the bonnet. Are there any unusual noises like the gurgling under the dash, on acceleration, that you can get if the water/air mix gets pushed through the heater hoses ?
What happens when you open the header tank cap after a short run, is it under pressure ?

oil in the header tank

skunk98

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The Mad Hat Man

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