QuestionQUESTION: Hi,this vehicle has done 215,000 kms.It's blowing slight blue smoke after the thermatic fan has run [after reaching maximum temp.Its a manual gearbox and after running down a big hill on trailing throttle it doesnt blow any smoke on hitting the throttle again.I appreciate any help that you can give.
ANSWER: Most likely, your valve stem seals are beginning to leak oil into the cylinders. Replacing them will be a moderately expensive repair, and there's no hazard of damage from not repairing them. I wouldn't recommend performing any repairs unless you have a compelling reason to do so (such as emissions requirements).
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QUESTION: Thank you for being so prompt. If i did change the seals, could i do it onthe vehicle[i think i saw a Haynes manual that said so.If so what specific tools would i need.If the head has to come off what do you think it will cost me.I do have the chance of buying an early [200?] accent engine [same engine], low kms for $200. Thanking you so much.
AnswerThis can be done with the head on the car, but you'll need to put compressed air into the cylinder to hold the valve closed while you have the spring off the change the seal. You'll also need a valve spring compressor that will work with the head on the car. Such tools are often available at Sears or your local auto parts store.
As long as the other engine is a 1.5, there should be few issues. The only thing of significance I can recall is that the moungtings may be different. Changing the engine will require significantly more effort than replacing the valve stem seals, however.
