ford f-150 smoke problem

[robbase101]

I'm seeking help from anyone out there. I have 2001 Ford F150 Supercrew with a 4.6 engine that blows white smoke when I start her up in the morning. I'm trying to figure out the problem to repair it before it gets to far.

[unclebubbles]

This is most likely caused by the valve stem seals going bad. Im not sure what the valve train looks like on the 4.6. but on most engines, these seals can be replaced in frame. They make special spring compressors for the job you can buy for around 40 $ , or rent. Pull the plugs, get the piston up to tdc, fill the cyl with compressed air to keep the valve from dropping, and be careful not to fumble-finger the valve keepers, and drop one in the engine. I dont like doing it this way, i prefer pulling the heads, but thats up to you. But for the cost and the trouble, if its not so bad its fouling the plugs or the converter, most people put up with it for a while. Also, check the crankcase ventilation system. Pcv valve, and engine blowby, can force oil into filter housings/intake manifold....ect. ,depending on the plumbing. Good luck.
Later
Ed
.

[horse482]

On that style of pickup you cannot replace the valve stem seals on the vechile, there is no room to the rear cylinders.

[mechhound]

White smoke is somewhat natural in cold weather, especially for a while after a cold start. If you don't notice anything unusual looking about your motor oil and aren't loosing coolant, I wouldn't worry too much about it. Smoke from oil is blue. Smoke from an overly rich fuel(gas) mixture is black.