I didn't see any reference to sludge.

But at this point, I don't see any other options for you other than pulling the UIM and LIM for inspection. There'* too much risk in NOT doing that and at least replacing the gaskets.

well i did have sludge, and the oil didn't look milky as coolant-y oil usually does, but i will definetly inspect them, and replace gaskets, just because

i got the UIM off today, and the gasket and UIM itself look almost perfect...my next guess is the LIm gaskets, although from the side they also look new...they may have been eaten thru by the dex-cool in parts...which is what i'm hoping for...either that or the gaskets are all good and just the sludge in the oil pan took out the bearing

These gaskets came of an L36 4 months ago, and were installed sometime AFTER 2002:



Pretty, huh?

Take off the LIM, see how bad your gaskets are, replace them with the new aluminum framed design, and get the DEX out of your car forever. Flush your coolant and replace it with Prestone Long-Life DEX compatible.