antifreeze in oil

[Frankkube]

Took my 94 Explorer for a simple oil change today. Got a call from the shop stating the oil is a milky brown color and that the coolant is about 4 inches from the top off point - the resivoir is empty. He suspects the head gasket and wanted to drain the oil into a pan and see if it separates overnight.

I have no smoke blowing from the exhaust and my heat is working fine in the cab.

Can someone tell me what to expect for the replacement of a head gasket and possibly the cost of a head?

And remind me never again to brag about my great explorer with no problems - even at 145000 miles. That will get you every time.

Thanks in advance.
Frank

 

[410Fortune]

Always get a second opinion....

Have you ever overheated the truck?
Have you checked the coolant level yourself?

 

[Frankkube]

Never overheated the car... Plan on a second opinion, thanks.

 

[SGR1600]

It may not be a head, it could be two seperate problems. I would think you would be able to see some green in the oil rather than it just being milky brown. Also, oil and antifreeze separate pretty quickly. I'm no mechanic, so let us know what you find.