burning oil after oil change

[HotZ28]

Originally Posted by wtijr

Bo, Do you think that there is any chance of O-ring seals to shrink with an oil treatment such as Lucas' or the like?

OK, let’s assume that you have good compression & vacuum and the only problem you have is a puff of smoke after the car has been sitting (or idling) for an extended period of time. None of the “oil treatments” will fix the valve seal problem; all they will do is increase the viscosity of the oil. Replacing the seals is not that difficult, or expensive. It is about a 2 ½ - 3 hr labor job and the better design seals cost less than 25 bucks. In addition to a normal set of hand tools and a valve spring compressor, you will need an air compressor with a connector hose that will screw into the spark plug hole. You can only do one cylinder at a time. If you don’t have the tools, shop around and get some estimates from several trusted shops. A fair estimate would range from 250-300 bucks. Good Luck!

[wtijr]

Originally Posted by HotZ28

OK, let’s assume that you have good compression & vacuum and the only problem you have is a puff of smoke after the car has been sitting (or idling) for an extended period of time. None of the “oil treatments” will fix the valve seal problem; all they will do is increase the viscosity of the oil. Replacing the seals is not that difficult, or expensive. It is about a 2 ½ - 3 hr labor job and the better design seals cost less than 25 bucks. In addition to a normal set of hand tools and a valve spring compressor, you will need an air compressor with a connector hose that will screw into the spark plug hole. You can only do one cylinder at a time. If you don’t have the tools, shop around and get some estimates from several trusted shops. A fair estimate would range from 250-300 bucks. Good Luck!

I'm sure you're right. I was hoping to buy a little time. This job would certainly be pushing the envelope for me. Do you know of any detailed instructions on doing this job?

Thanks

[HotZ28]

This problem is not something that will damage the engine; in fact, what little oil drains down into the combustion chamber will quickly burn off when you start the engine. I have seen people drive a car like this for years. You will probably never notice any side effects other than the slight increase in oil consumption and a puff of smoke after you first start the engine. I would not worry about it unless you just can’t stand to see smoke!

[wtijr]

Problem Solved

My smoking at startup problem has been fixed. I want post the solution for the record.

Inafogg, HotZ28 and BNaylor, you guys pointed me in the right direction. The problem was with the PCV valve. The first time I changed the oil, I also changed the PCV valve. I managed to lose one of the O-rings. That was the problem. I had a pro look at it. He immediately picked up on a vacuum problem and traced it back to the PCV valve. It ended up only costing me about $50 (not counting multiple oil changes and time )

Thanks guys