Hi, had G reg Townie 4x4 for 3 years now with no probs at all, but during last 5 days had to top up water after 60-70mile journeys morning after. First time header tank was completely empty (although according to 'idiot gauge' engine was running just below half way! Checked under pressurised twist-off coolant cap and had to fill metallic tube with water . . . but slight amount of 'cappucino' like foam existed when water level was correct - could this be the start of a blowing head gasket? - Had Eurodiesel of Chorley have a quick inspection and they said there was no sign of steam from the exhaust and that it was very clean and dry for a diesel and did not have the usual clouds of smoke!! (I add Redex diesel treatment to the fuel regularly and am impressed with the change in performance from the engine on pull-off from stop!). Any suggestions would be appreciated . . . changed oil as matter of course and am now keeping an eye on it, local runs no problem at moment. Cheers, long live the Townie!! JohnN.

- (#9679) JohnN, 29 Mar 04 15:44

John

Could be one of a number of things that have all been covered many times on here before. Check out the easier things like small leaks, replacement cap, airtight pipes to and in expansion bottle before panicing about the headgasket. Main thing is to keep a watchful eye on coolant levels and the temperature gauge. A Mason alarm would be a great help and good investment as well as peace of mind.

- (#9679) Ian Dunse (Derbs), 30 Mar 04 00:04

Cheers Ian,
Had a look at all pipes I can see, they seem ok - have replaced twist-off pressure cap (it was the original, so I was told) for QH equivalent. It has run ok on locals and this weekend did 150-mile round trip to Yorkshire (steady 60-70 mph - honest!!) with no problems and no need to top up water on morning after . . . hope it's sussed as it has not sudded up either, it was only small amount on initial instance, just like cappucino! Know it's a long shot and there is probably a queue from here to eternity, but anyone know of a cheap towbar assembly going s/h anywhere (things a bit tight at moment, but need the bar) . . . just for light trailer? Many thanks. John

- (#9679) JohnN, 4 Apr 04 09:12

I would take it to a known good garage and ask them to sniff the coolant, if you have a problem with head or gasket you'll know it straight away.

- (#9679) Master_Simon, 4 Apr 04 17:11

Master Simon
The sniffer tests only work with petrol, not diesel. A more obvious sign with diesel engines is that if exhaust gases are entering the coolant, it will turn black with the soot.

- (#9679) dave Bright (Bournemouth), 5 Apr 04 00:55