94 cabriolet sludge question

[Bob Rossato]

This is a common phenomenon even with a properly operating thermostat during
the winter months.  This became prevalent with the advent of the splash
shields that VAG added over the cams on the SOHC motors, such as the 12V V6
and the 8V 4 cyl. motors.  As the moisture in the oil evaporates it
condenses on the top of the colder valve cover and filler cap, resulting in
the milky sludge.  Before they added splash shields (at least in the 4 cyl.,
the 12V V6 probably always had them) the hot oil would hit all those areas
under the valve cover and you'd never collect this sludge.

Bob

> -----Original Message-----
> From: quattro-admin at audifans.com [mailto:quattro-admin at audifans.com]On
> Behalf Of Dave C
> Sent: Saturday, January 18, 2003 6:52 PM
> To: AV8oR
> Cc: quattro at audifans.com
> Subject: 94 cabriolet sludge question
>
>
> Zaf writes...
> "I am helping to maintain a friends 94 cabrio V6.
> I changed the oil yesterday and found a creamy tan sludge on
> the bottom of the oil filler cap. "
>
> Zaf,
> This is a common indicator of a stuck thermostat which never lets the
> engine reach normal operating temperature.  Assuming you are in a region
> that gets cold this time of year, ask her how well her heater works.  It
> should put out nice toasty heat.  If not, then the thermostat needs to be
> changed.
> ----------------
> Dave C.
>