Nissan Repair: Nissan Pathfinder, nissan pathfinder, valve seals

Question
Every time I cold start my pathfinder a cloud of smoke come out of the tailpipe.  The smoking goes away after the car has been running for a minute or so.  What might be causing this and what can I do about it?

Answer
Cameron,

I would assume that the smoke is coming from the vavle seals.  That is, they are worn and the oil sucks down the valve guides when you first start the car.  After that there is no smoke until the next time.  You could either have blocked drain back holes or the worn valve seals.  Without taking the valve covers off you will not know.  Also, if you have changed the oil regularly it is most probably the valve seals.