Mitsubishi Repair: 2001 Diamate smoking and temp gauge rises at stops, head gasket, pressure test

Question
My car has 155000 miles and still drives and runs well. After I warm my car in the morning, if I let it idle for more than about 7 minutes I notice smoke from the back of the engine. At the first stop after about 8 miles I see the smoke again then no more. Also, when I stop at a light, the temp gauge rises above the 1/2 way point about two notches.I have replaced timing belt and water pump (3rd party mechanic), thermostat and hoses (heater core replaced at 60000). Also replaced spark plugs and wires. I need to drive the car another 100000 miles, and I try to stay on top of problems. You may know something.

Answer
Yung: I would do a pressure test on your car's engine. As I think you have a weak head gasket. The temp raise, is the fact that the car is using water. It is mixing with the oil and that is the smoke you are starting to see. You need to get that pressure test and what would show if that head gasket is getting weak or not. You could also check to see if the engine is using water, also check the oil to see if you can see drops of water in the oil. I hope this helps and God bless: Linda