I have a 1990 XJ 4.0 with 172k. went to check the coolant to day and noticed it was low. Don't think it leaks from the bottle because i just replaced it and it holds pressure now. Did some research on the forum, and went for a drive. After I parked it i took off the oil filler cap and noticed steam (or smoke, not sure which) coming out of the opening. I'm concerned that coolant is getting into the oil. Didn't really notice any cloudiness when I changed the oil 2,000 miles ago. Oil pressure is great, and otherwise the jeep runs fine. Any help?

 

Some people have talked about a kit that Autozone sells for checking for coolant and oil mixing.

Today's oils with high detergent can mask the coolant/oil mixing until it gets really bad.

Unexplained coolant loss usually means a cracked head and/or a blown head gasket.

Coolant eats up bearings quickly. Any coolant in the oil is too much.

 

Park it on a big piece of cardboard to be sure it's not leaking from somewhere. Water pumps have weep holes, when they start to go bad you get a drip out of them.

 

Turns out it was just a lower radiator hose leak. Thanks for the advice guys! The forum is always the best place to go for advice