New and in need of help

[Randy Spacemonkey]

Hi, I'm Rob and picked up a mk2 2l 16v last night which I was told is using Audi bottom end witch has been lightened and ballenced, and reworked 16v head and cams. It goes very well and pulles like a train. But...

I started it this morning and after about 30 seconds the red light in the water temp gauge started to flash? The needle stops just short of half way and the fan cuts in and out ok.

I then noticed that there was some sludge in the header tank and I think this is oil. Checked oil filler cap and all lookes fine in there but thinking head gasket?

Help please, thanks Rob

[Randy Spacemonkey]

Just done a serch and thinking may be oil cooler. I will by pass and flush and see what happens.

[DarnPB]

If the temp light is flashing, it could just mean low coolant level.
As for the sludge, check in your oil filler for any sludge in there. A little is acceptable, but loads, you need to start asking questions.
Are you sure the last owner has not sold the car because of these problems?
Maybe you should direct some Q's at him/her.