Explain this if you can

[Newts]

Last week I found some emulsion on the dipstick of my 89 Turbo, somewhat worrying.

Today there's none, where did it go ?.

The water was level was down slightly, thats not unusual, I normally have to top it up slightly so no great water loss or change

The current oil is mineral and I'm planning to replace it with fully synthetic.

Any thoughts?

[V8 FOU]

I expect it was "boiled off" after a run. Slight condensation will evaporate when the oil gets hot. Or maybe the liners don't leak all the time....... just kidding!

[andydclements]

Possibly just condensation from the cold weather and lack of frequent use caused it.

[Newts]

I'm driving it every day, about 3 - 4 miles each way to work and back

[dodge1979]

Well a 4 mile trip isnt really that much and as mentioned with the cold weather and damp conditions...however, mineral oil will break down quickly...and if there are any engine breather leaks,whether your aware of them or not, this will allow extra moisture and air into the system.. Creating the emulsion you describe. Worst case is the head gasket has a slight leak, but you should see evidence in the header tank too. Do you let the engine warm up fully before driving each journey?

Oh, is yours a carb or injection turbo?

[Newts]

Its a 1989 Carb Turbo Darren

I have to admit I dont warm it up, I start it and drive to work at a quite normal or sedate pace and its usually up to temp by the time I get there.

Header tank is clean as a whistle, coolant is nice clear/blue

I'll have a look at the breather system at the weekend if I can track it round the engine

[andydclements]

if you are worried the HG may be failing you're welcome to pop round and we'll use the test chemical (it detects CO air above the coolant in the tank).

Note: I didn't say I'd do it, the spine may prevent me moving well by the time the weekend arrives, it's getting bad again this evening, but if it's fine then I'd happily do it.

[Newts]

Thanks Andy, thats an offer I cant refuse!

I dont need to to it this weekend if it a problem for you, so let me know when you're feeling okay

Hope the back gets better soon