How does oil end up in coolant and/or vice versa?

Did oil pressure drop? Did engine oil dipstick look like you were using it to stir pnut butter?

 

You would think it would cross most peoples minds when they check the oil, but enough people don't. Technically they don't have to. I'd take the driver who did all of his routine checks but didn't care to be observant to the make/model/power of his engine over the driver who knows every number on his engine but never checks it.

Sounds like hes a company driver therefore all he needs to be able to do is read the last 6 of the VIN so they can find the parts. Ever call a dealer and say i need such and such part for a C12? Enough of the guys wont even try without the VIN. Don't blame them either.

the potash and other minerals in coolant will ruin bearings rapidly.

Sounds like hes a company driver and had just returned home. Mentioned the issue to the mechanic and instead of hanging around to listen the mechanic complain he headed for home in his personal vehicle like he was going to do anyways whether or not his truck was broken.

x2. Measure twice cut once aka diagnose, start with the cheap stuff. Most dealers will start with the expensive stuff. That way when you come back and say the 5,000 repair bill didnt fix it they can say the $2,000 bill should and you wont think 2k looks like much after loosing 5k versus them fixing the $500 issue first then telling you to spend 2K. They make more that way too of course.

 

Not all coolants will make milky oil. The extended life ones don't seem to do this much. You can still detect it but it isnt as blatently obvious.

 

could even be a crack in the block or the head

 

I agree, but it just boggles my mind that someone doesn't even have the basic knowledge of the equipment they are driving.

 

Ours is black like used oil. It was not this way a few days ago when looked at it for other reasons.
Thinking oil cooler went out or someone is trying to ruin my truck on purpose.
Driver seems to keep pretty good eye on these things.