smoking engine

[Joseph Chan <joe@domain.elided>]

Well, it seems I can no longer ignore the smoking problem of my GTV 2.0
turbo!    The problem is most noticable (obviously) when sitting in
traffic, and has become so bad recently that I have had to start
shutting the engine off when sitting for more than a few seconds.   The
car has always smoked a little since I've had it (about 1.5 years),
however in the past couple of months it has worsened considerable.

My question: is this likely to be valve guides or rings?   How can I
reliable determine what the problem is?   I am assuming that a
compression test that shows low compression in one cylinder will
indicate a valve guide problem?

Assuming the problem is valve guides, I will probably pull the head off
myself and send it out to be reworked.   Not sure what to do if the
rings need replacing, as I do not really have time, money or facilities
to completely remove the engine.   Plus, this is my only road car so I
can't afford to be without it for very long!

Thanks for any replies,

Joe,
Melbourne, Australia

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