Mates valver oil query....

[dan7]

1990 spec 1.8 16v. 120k. Very small amount of mayo on inside of oil filler cap. Some mayo on dipstick, but after wiping and redipping a few times, it dissappears and clean oil is present. oil buzzer and warning light comes on now and again, especially when going uphill. NO loss in power, no oil in coolant. Any ideas guys?

[DarnPB]

Run the engine up to temperature and re-dip the oil and check for water. Remember that oil floats on water, so any water will be on the bottom of the sump when the engine is cold. If the oil level seems to be a little high then suspect water in the oil due to head gasket failure.
The oil light will come on if oil pressure is low, so if the pump is trying to suck water, the viscocity will not be sufficient to generate pressure.

[dabill]

would it not be a good idea to un-do the sump plug at bottom and check i any water is apparant in a small sample of oil drained?

just an idea cos im thinkig of checking my-self...

rob

[rubjonny]

some small ammount of mayo is to be expected, just condensation buildup.  If you get a LOT especially on the dipstick then start worrying!

[dan7]

Thanks for your help guys. He's just bought an oil cooler from GSF. I'll be fitting it 9AM tomorrow. I suggested he starts with the least expensive guesses first! Thanks again, will let you know what turns up!!

[dan7]

Fitted oil cooler yesterday. Replaced oil and coolant. So far so good! So hopefully, that was it.......Thanks for your help chaps.