UK Car Repair: Vectra 2.5 V6 CDX - 98 (R), sludge deposits, head gaskets

Question
I've just bought the above mentioned car and found heavy sludge deposits in the expansion tank, should I fear the worse? (eg Head Gaskets) The car drives really well though, apart from (Q2) the auto g/b warning comes up but only every so often, eg, when changing from 'D' to 'R' or when cold predominantly (Fluid?) I Also plan to do the cambelt, can you tell me where I can get the 'Special Tools' from and at roughly what cost...
Thank you for your time
Simon

Answer
hi,
regarding the sludge....not necc head gaskets. The most common thing is the oil cooler/heatexchanger, this sits inbetween the heads in the "v". All the inlet manifolds etc have to come out to get to it and all the gaskets and seals will need to be replaced too.
With ref to the cambelt I dont know where the tools are available.....sounds like a job for the internet/ebay?. However I would strongly suggest that you get it done proffesionally as there is a set tensioning and timing  routine that has to be followed....not really a DIY job to be honest (no offense I have to assume you are not a professional)Another thing to concider is that if it all goes wrong and damages the engine a dealer will be liable and will get it sorted.....you on the other hand end up with a dead car on your drive.(replace all rollers and tensioners too)
Check autobox fluid for discolouration and smells of burning.....best to drain and refill with correct amount (dont know spec I'm afraid) and see how it goes.