'73 Smokes on first start
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Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 92
Likes: 2
From: Oakland Tn
'73 Smokes on first start
Got a 73, 350, mild cam, and just had the original heads worked. Shaved, new rockers, heavier springs, umbrella seals, all guides checked and also had the studs pinned. Machine shop that did the work has a good reputation. The problem is that the first 150 miles no issues, now when I go out to start the car after sitting all night I get a puff of blue smoke out of the left pipe (drivers side). After the car runs a minute it quits smoking and doesn't smoke anymore, it only smokes on start up after sitting all night.
I've checked all the plugs and they're dry. New plug wires and I'm not using any oil. Dipstick on oil is good. Car starts great and runs strong. I have not adjusted the valves since putting it back together. Got about 200 miles on it since the work.
Could it be that I have a valve that is not seating correctly and letting a small amount of oil drip down and then it burns off immediately after starting. Do I need to go back in and check the adjustment on the valves. I have heard varying opinions on why this is happening.
I've checked all the plugs and they're dry. New plug wires and I'm not using any oil. Dipstick on oil is good. Car starts great and runs strong. I have not adjusted the valves since putting it back together. Got about 200 miles on it since the work.
Could it be that I have a valve that is not seating correctly and letting a small amount of oil drip down and then it burns off immediately after starting. Do I need to go back in and check the adjustment on the valves. I have heard varying opinions on why this is happening.
Team Owner
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 24,125
Likes: 15
From: Columbia Missouri
Sounds like oil is leaking in. Not unheard of even after a rebuild of the top end.
I would take the car in to the shop. Explain the puff of blue smoke at startup, and see what they have to say or offer to do.
I would take the car in to the shop. Explain the puff of blue smoke at startup, and see what they have to say or offer to do.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 2,713
Likes: 31
From: Shreveport LA
LA Events Coordinator
Happened to me on a new GMPP crate engine....it was the valve guide seals...only had about 300 miles on the new engine. GMPP covered it through warranty....once it was fixed....no problems!
