[Vwdiesel] Head Cracked between valves...Seeking Advice (fwd)

[MikeyBigFish at wmconnect.com]

Doyt,
          I had similar like trouble in my Golf '86 1.6L n/a, (Oil in 
Coolant).
My mechanic advised, "oil in coolant is OK,
                                     coolant in oil, No Good."
Also, he said don't worry about a little oil in the coolant.
Over 50% of his customers old VW diesels have oil showing up in the
coolant reservoir now and then, and they run without any problems.
     After much agonizing self torturing torment on the oil/coolant issue
my engine began overheating. 
The overheating was resolved by installing a new radiator, 
plus a new coolant reservoir.
The old radiator was clogged and failed to cool and circulate proper.
With a clean reservoir I can monitor any new oil leakage into the coolant.
That was at about 400k miles.
Now at 500k miles and no noticeable oil leaks.
The head was never pulled.  
        So, my mechanics feel the oil leak was due to high temp & pressure
caused by a bad radiator. 
This high temp/pressure coolant was being forced past the gasket and  
allowed for oil intrusion to the coolant fluid.
      I can't say your radiator is no good, or the head is just fine.
All I know is what I stated above. 
Now that your head is pulled, what is the most prudent action to take?
This is where the forum shines. 
We look forward to hearing on your progress. 
Hope this helps, Mike in 
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