1999 3.0 smokes after 5 minutes of idling

[bcopeland]

My 1999 car starts and runs fine for about five minutes. After that, it starts smoking out the tailpipe like the head gasket is leaking. Do you have any ideas what could be causing this? Any help would ne appreciated.

[Stealthee]

Dont know if you got your answer or not, but it is most like the valve stem seals leaking. Its a common issue as the 3.0's get older.

[bcopeland]

Do the exhaust and intake valve seals match for both sides or are the exhaust and intake seals different? Can I replace the seals without taking the heads off? Thanks for all of your help.

[Stealthee]

I would just get all 24 valve seals (12 each head of course) I do not believe there is a difference but am not 100% sure.

I do know there is a way to change them without removing the heads. You have to pressurize the cylinder the keep the valve from falling and then somehow pry the valve spring up or something. I have seen write ups on it but cant remember completely.

I am sure with some googling you can find the procedure. If I come across it again I will be sure to send a link.

[bcopeland]

Thanks for your advice. I tried to find the right valve spring compressor, but all seem too big to fit on the engine.

[Stealthee]

You are probably finding ones for use with the heads off the car.

[mxmikie]

i rent the tool to change the vss on the car [email protected]

[Stealthee]

Please do not go bumping old threads.

[comp]

let us know if it was the seals

[bcopeland]

Eventually broke down and took it to my mechanic. He took off the heads and noticed that the valve had a crack in it. I had he engine replaced for $1700. But it runs great, now!!!

[comp]

Originally Posted by bcopeland

Eventually broke down and took it to my mechanic. He took off the heads and noticed that the valve had a crack in it. I had he engine replaced for $1700. But it runs great, now!!!

not bad