Head gasket...yes or no

[trents99]

I know the tell tale signs and that a leak down/compression test will confirm but I wanted to hear some thoughts first. First off it's an '89 stock as far as I know except some type of Crane cam. Previous owner said the owner before him had some engine work done but wasn't sure what or when or any details.

Front seal was leaking so I replaced that and of course it got fresh coolant and oil. I've driven the car about 300 miles since then and today noticed a small puddle under the thermostat housing. I figured it was coolant but when I put the flashlight on it it looked like oil, but kind of watery. I pulled the dipstick and the oil still looks fresh. I wiped it on my finger and I thought it looked a little thin (it's regular 10w-40).

So I'm not sure if it's the HG or not. I don't get any smoke out of the pipes. No bubbles in the radiator. No coolant loss. Car doesn't run hot. Coolant doesn't show any sign of oil. Haven't checked plugs yet but will tomorrow along with the comp test. Just wanted to hear some thoughts before hand.

thanks

 

[Copperstang87]

check it every day/night for the next few days and if its not milky lookin then ur prolly safe.

 

[trents99]

I hope you're right.

 

[ALMOSTFINISHED]

It may be the lower intake gasket leaking oil. The ends of the gaskets tend to leak there. Check the back side, good chance its leakin there too. Like said above, keep an eye on the fluids for the next few days going thru the cycle, (check before initial start up, then after when warm, then once it has cooled down) Good luck

Nick