Originally posted by 813kr$
WATCH OUT FOR:
gray-blue smoke on initial start up, which would mean a previous owner didnt keep the oil level up and hardened the oil ring gaskets. It will run fine for a while, but prep yourself for a rebuild in the future.
Another smoke on initial start up, would be white and disapear quicly like steam. Which would mean the engine gaskets are leaking cooloant into the combustion chamber and that would need a rebuild soon. Would also be hard to start. You could also let the engine idle with rad cap off and watch for bubbles, similar to a bad head gasket.
Iam sure their is more, but Iam not a 2nd gen guy! anyone else?
best way to check for bad coolant seals.
1. unscrew radiator cap
2. start car
3. watch flow of fluid
4. if you see bubbles then coolant seals are shot.
blue/gray smoke is not always a bad sign. i get it every morning. but i premix tcw3 oil so i run on the rich side.