Head Gasket??

[ronnie_howes]

I'm suspecting my head gasket has failed due to the fan being disconnected and temp running high, water is like baileys and I seen gunk on the filler cap but not on the dipstick. Ive recently replaced the pressure switch to stop an oil leak so could this have let a little water in causing the gunk or should I be worried?

I want to take the rocker cover off to inspect and clean before I do an oil change and waste money but im worried that the current rubber gasket wont be usable for a quick inspection.

Any suggestions?

[dragonfly]

As soon as your remove the cover you will need to replace the gasket - for the cost no need to re-use. Flush the coolant system as well.
What engine is it?

[ronnie_howes]

Its a 1.8 8v with a 2.0 bottom end. Whats the best way to flush the coolant? ive heard you have to rempove the thermo housing but that would require a new gasket surely?

[dragonfly]

Disconnect the bottom hose on the raditor and run the water through the expansion bottle. Move the heater control to hot.  If you want to get the flow and temp running right then no harm in removing the thermostat (you will need a new gasket).  The stat can be checked if it's working properly.

Before you start spending any money and removing stuff I would get engine pressure tested.

[ronnie_howes]

Ok mate thanks for the reply. I got the car from a swap, its got loads of new parts on it and a massive history folder but the amount of problems im finding are slightly frustrating. Im handy with spanners etc and have to tools to pretty much do anything but when you got forums like this with people knowing the cars inside out I feel less stupid finding out before I break anything.

[dragonfly]

The 8v is a pretty simple car to work on.  It is old and if you are handy with some spanners you can keep it going.