WATER IN OIL

[Paul jorgensen]

Hi all,
I did the yearly oil/filter change on my mk1 lotus Cortina last night, I started and ran the engine to operating temperature then drained the oil. The oil was milky, when I poured the oil from bowl into a container I was left with a small amount of green water in the bowl.
Thinking I may have to remove the head, I thought it best to ask you guys for advice. Is there anywhere on the lotus engine apart from the head gasket where water can get into the oil. I am hoping you may say it is a simple fix.
I know wish full thinking!!!

Paul

 

[Trident team]

Hi Paul
PM sent.
Cheers Geoff

 

[Rob]

Water pump was the problem on my mk2

Rob

 

[Paul jorgensen]

Hi Rob,
I will take it out for a good run when the weather gets better, there are a few checks that I have been advised to do, compression test, plug check etc. To be honest the engine pulls great, there is no oil in the water so possibly it could be the pump.
How did you find out it was the water pump?

 

[Neilsjuke]

With the rocker cover off you can with the cooling system pressurised you can check for leak between the front and rear plates around the pump The mating surfaces can be damaged by being prised apart on engine strip downs . Check if there is is play in the pump bearing.
Neil

 

[David Baldock]

Could just be the head gasket.

Dave B

 

[Paul jorgensen]

Thanks for your replies guys, I will hopefully get to it over the weekend & let you know my findings.

 

[Paul jorgensen]

It was a lovely day yesterday so thought I would take my car out for a run before we may have to stay in.
I did 57m, the roads were clear at 6am so it was a nice brisk run. When I got back I checked the oil & water. The water coolant had not dropped and the oil was as clear as when I put it in changing the oil & filter last weekend.
I bought a head gasket set from Burtons but am not sure now what to do. Any advise.

Paul

 

[Trident team]

Hi Paul
If the head gasket is a cometic type my advice is do not use it.
They are not suitable unless the two mating surfaces are milled and of a mirror type finish.
I went down that road when I overhauled my engine and not knowing fitted the Burtons Cometic gasket and it ''blew'' in the first 5 minutes of running.
The best type to fit and are the original design,the copper/asbestos variety of which I keep a few spares.
You can still get them I'm sure,in England.
But if you get stuck I can help you.
Before fitting my advice is to apply a light coat of ''Hylomar'' pressure pack spray to both sides.
Cheers Geoff

 

[Peter Meyer]

Hi Geoff,
I doubt very much that you can but a gasket with asbestos in it. Asbestos was banned in 1999.
Just saying......