Any ideas?
Replaced Head gasket in 89 22re with Engnbdlr part 3k ago while I was replacing the timing chain. Only flaw in job was that I didn't tapp the block before re-torquing new head bolts to spec. I recently have been getting idle surge due to air in coolant system. Replaced cap and radiator with no results. I have burped the coolant system 4 times. Each time i drive it runs great then gets idle surge after 5min, surge lasts 5min then spews coolant out the overflow, then surge goes away and returns 5min later due to what seems to be loss of coolant. Maybe into cylinders or spewing into overflow. Thermostat is opening when hot. I can smell exhaust in radiator and have the milky oil/water under oil cap. Weird thing is that the truck seems to have same to better power than before. Can it be anything other than head gasket?
1- Is there any way that exhaust can get from EGR, PAIR, ect.. to coolant system?
2- Could water vapor under oil cap be coolant/water getting into intake when coolant system overflows and spews while driving?
3- Can water vapor in cylinders generate more compression and power?
4-If Coolant bores in block have gotten rusty, what is a goos option for head gaskets, OEM? Copper?
thanks guys, you have been a great help.

 

Have you done a compression test yet?
Cheap and easy.

Sounds like you have the same problem I have. I forgot to chase the threads brier bolting it back together. Got false torque readings . She started and ran great. Got about a mile down the road and she just shut off. I did a compression test 0 compression on 1,3,4 & 30 lbs on #3. I am doing a long block swap because I have a fresh motor with only 40k on it.

 

I will run test tonight.

 

Had to do test cold at 30 degrees outside.
1-195
2-200
3-195
4-200
Readings must be higher than normal due to cold weather.

 

Were the cooling holes on your head corroded when you did the head gasket change? if they were corroded out and widened,and you didnt re-weld them, they could be leaking into the cylinder.