[ryangus]

Checking on the 93 Vit this morning, I noticed that it took 1.5L of coolant, and there appears to be condensation when checking the oil. I suspect water is getting into the block. It runs OK, but I'm probably gonna drop it into a mechanic tomorrow.

Any ideas what might be causing this, and a good mechanic on the northside of Bris (I'm at Redcliffe).

Oh, and how much I might be up for

[hutch]

Head gasket... or fine crack in head.
Does water come out the exhaust? If so the issue might be on the exhaust side of the head. Try tensioning the head bolts (all) down to the correct torque 1st before you decide to pull off the head.

I had a car that was having intermittent problems starting (lasted for about 2 weeks) then I had issues with temp guage going crazy (hot then cold then hot, that lasted for about a week) then finnally water start to come from the exhaust and that was when I realized it was the head.
Cost me $600 to have it fixed, professionally.

[royce]

how long since you last checked the coolant? how often do you check it? IE is it not normal for it to lose coolant and how fast did it lose it?

recheck the oil after a long run to get it hot and get rid of any moisture, unless the oil is very coffee coloured dont suspect a head gasket just yet!!!

mine was losing coolant, but seeing the common prob for em where there are no other signs is to weep out of a porus block I decided to ignore it till I had the starter out and couldnt see any leaks so pressure tested it and found the top hose a bit loose, so it can always be the simple things

[ryangus]

I remember refilling the radiator a month ago, but can't recall how much it took. I've only had it about 2 months, but it had decent service history (with receipts) so I'm not sure how long it's been in this state.

There was definitely what looked like water droplets on the dipstick above the oil line, and some coagulation? at the bottom of the dipstick.

Anyone want to check it out for me, or recommend a good mechanic who won't rip me off? Unfortunately, I'm good with computers, not with mechanics, but would be more than happy to exchange services!