2015 Expert 2.0hdi 130bhp Head Gasket or Bleed fail

[ImNoExpert]

Hi all. Long standing issue with this van going back 12 months with many threads on here looking for a clue.

One thing I've often over looked is the EGR/Turbo as they were replaced back in 2021. However what I've also failed to mention/notice is the constant topping up of the coolant. Until last week I thought I had a slow leak from the expansion tank lower pipe connection as I've often found fluid on the outside bottom of the tank. I've assumed it was from the pipe connection and it didn't concern me; I just kept topping it up.

A thought occurred to me that when i bought it last May there was a 100% reading in Red from the EGRBypass (Bypass the cooling of the EGR to aid with cold start) so i removed the EGR for inspection. However, i also separated the Cooling section (warned against in PSA Service Manual) as it was only 4 torque nuts and a gasket for inspection and cleaning; its wasn't bad at all but had a little soot, not tar, so i used carb cleaner to flush it out. I put it all back together to no discernible difference. I did this twice in one week, but I reused the original metal gasket.

As the weather is getting warmer I've noticed some steam coming from the bonnet so inspected after a spirited run. The expansion bottle was full and releasing coolant from the safety valve. I have now assumed this has been happening for the past 12 months periodically as I've been topping up the coolant. So on Saturday I removed the EGR once again and used a new gasket. I figured the pressure was coming from a failed gasket as the water and EGR gasses ports are right next to each other.

So, I've assumed 2 things in the past week. 1st is that I have inadvertently caused this issue by removing the EGR, using the same gasket, and not bleeding the system correctly since, hence the constant top ups of the coolant. Or 2nd, The head gasket has failed, has always been failed since i bought the van, hence why I'm losing power upon acceleration.


So, the 13th May is my official 12 month anniversary of picking up the van, where upon leaving the compound it was smoking, and slow (0-60 in 25 seconds) Since then I've sepnt an entire year changing parts, visiting forums and rechecking what I've done. I've got Diagbox 9.68 and a Peugeot FAP Full App. I have never had a code on the van, but my FAP app and Diagbox report Intermittent P2566 P1497. Not enough turbo.



So, my main question today is: Can I bleed this system without the use of the 0173-2 Charge Cylinder?

I have tried a Haynes method on YT. From cold, fill the expansion tank release the bulkhead bleed points and cap off when no air is escaping. Warm engine then let cool- recheck levels. However, when I do this, the pressure builds in the expansion tank and the level rises to almost full. I have been unable to get it to the point where the Fans kicks in twice. They doesn't start at all and I've revved it till 90 degrees for 20 mins twice today.

I'm at a total loss. 12 months of my life and almost £1000 spent on changing parts, Garage Diagnosis, Carbon Cleans, Fuel Additives and it may be a head gasket issue after all.

I've ordered a Sniff Test Kit which should arrive tomorrow. I know soon enough.

Thanks for all your help whomever got involved. Especially to Marc GivemeaBreak.

I could use a break myself.


Cheers.