After several calls and visits to local mechanics (the dealer would not even talk to me without $100), it was determined the head gasket was bad. I disassembled the head, sent it in for checking for cracks and straightness. The head was machined to make it straight, and no cracks were found. I replaced the head gasket, the car ran fine. After about 800 miles the car overheated again, same scenario. After talking with another mechanic I was told the head bolts were "stretch bolts" for one time use only and that is why the gasket blew again. I replaced the head gasket again, with new head bolts. (I am getting pretty good at this). Now the car runs fine but it looks like a mosiquito fogger. She blows blue smoke anytime there is a load (resistance) put on the motor. No antifreeze in the oil. I changed to a thicker oil, no change. It smokes when I first start it, not when it idles. It doesn't smoke when I am at highway speeds cruising, but it sure does when accelerating and shifting. I adjusted the valves and it did not help. Using a quart every 400 miles. Compression check says 150 across all 4 cylinders (within spec according to my manual). I like the car it gets 40-45 mpg. When it is running. I have a tough time thinking it is time to scrap it. Any advice? Valve guide seals?
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Tuesday, July 3rd, 2007 AT 1:22 PM