Hi,
I have a problem with my Vauxhall Astra. I have had a pressure test on engine which was ok. I have had the engine flushed and regular oil changes but after a few miles the white sludge returns.
I have noticed the temp gauge takes a long time to move.
N.B. the car is automatic with 8v engine. How can I eliminate problem and am I damaging the engine?
Answer
The white (or creamy coloured) sludge is water mixing with the oil. If it’s reappearing as quickly as you suggest, it’s probable the head gasket (in spite of what the pressure check indicated) or the seals at the bottom of the cylinder liners.
To find out which, you need to take the head off – if the gasket is intact, it’s probably the liner seals. When you do take the head off, leave one bolt in place but loose and rotate the head slightly before lifting it, otherwise you’ll lift the liners and break the seals anyway.
If it is the liners it’s a complete engine rebuild to cure it I’m afraid, but a secondhand engine is a cheaper option. (Get one with a short warranty so that if it has the same problem you can get your money back, but unless you can do it yourself you’ll still have to pay the cost of removing and replacing the engine).
Keywords:
engine-head-gasket-failure, engine-re-build, emulsification