my GTA is a smoker....it smokes the blue from the pipes.ugh. so what i am wondering is: - is there a way i can tell whether its my rings that are gone or if its just the valve seals, without opening the motor(like can i tell from if it builds up on idle or something like that?). this is the orgional never opened 305 with about 100,000 miles on it now if thats any indication, and i am trying to build a new motor for it but the 305 gotta do for a while yet, so if i can determine that its just the vavle seals gone, i'll have them replaced, but if its the rings gone, i'll just keep workin at the new motor.

A cylinder leakage test should help identify the source(s). The test is usually performed with the piston at TDC of the cylinder being tested. Of course, the valves are closed in that cylinder for the test. If you get significant leakage which can be audibly detected through the sump and oil filler cap of the rocker cover, it's likely the rings. If there is no significant leakage indication, either by sound or readings (less than 20%), your oil source may be the valve stems and seals.

It is entirely possible that you have a little of both. It is also possible that you have some of the oil ring rails that are sludged and sticking, and a good cleaning/flush might just help reduce some of the consumption.

from what ive noticed, if it just smokes until it warms up its the seals, if it smokes constantly its the rings. just what ive seen with a few of my friends motors that have done stuff like this.