I have a 85 iroc that has a little smoke coming out the tailpipe either at initial startup or when it’s been setting at idle for awhile. I’m not mechanical and Wanted to see if you guys have any suggestions as to what it may be. It also passed emissions a few weeks ago doing the same thing.

thanks

 

This issue is typically caused by old / worn valve seals in the heads.

 

Thanks you

 

Yup; odds are, it's valve guide seals. A universal problem with this kind of engine (SBC) in its old age.

 

Okay thought it may be head gasket but it’s not a lot of smoke....should I have head gasket replaced as well when doing valves?

 

No.

Not a head gasket.

Not "valves" either; just, valve guide seals. A relatively trivial matter to repair.

Not sure about "have"; should be more a matter of just "do".

 

Oh okay sorry my mistake

 

borrow a small air compressor get the tool from summit to pressure ea cyl
Make sure both valves are closed...then with a $8 manley valve spring compressor pull your springs, replace your seal (may as well do springs they are cheap) then move to the next cyl. Problem solved, no need to pull the heads.

 

Perfect thank I will try that

 

Make sure the oil drainage passage in the valve area is clear. If oil is pooling in that area it will exacerbate the problem. One of mine were clogged and after cleaning it out I can't see any smoke at all now.

 

Thank you guys so much