Smoke?

A couple of weeks ago I posted a thread on 'white smoke''. Since then I had the plugs, wires, fuel filter , and the throttle body cleaned. Now on start up I have a small amount of blue smoke that disappears after a few seconds. Also, I thought I used to hear the fuel pump for a few seconds before starting. Now I don't.All in all the truck runs fine. I just worry about the smoke and what it might be. I have not seen any signs of anything.Any ideas would sure be appreciated.I haven't changed the timing belt yet but that's next on my list with the water pump.This is an '04 with the 3400 DOHC engine.

 

Valve seals are leaking

 

Do a compression test, including a leakdown test, and you'll know where the problem is.

Likely valve stem seals as Ultra suggests, but leakdown will prove it.

If you are not consuming oil at an unusual rate, you can keep it topped with oil and drive, probably for a long time, before it gets much worse.

Right now the greatest risk may be ultimately fouling the cats/O2 sensors.

 

Is that an expensive repair?

 

Not being rude, but since you ask, I can only assume you'd be farming it out, not DIY.

So probably, depending on your definition of expensive. Fair amount of labor involved.

 

I may have found my problem. I had just had my oil changed the day before I started having problems.I pulled the dip stick and the oil level is about 11/2'' above the full mark. The filter should still be full shouldn't it?I hope I have found the problem ,but I hate thinking I may have damaged the engine.I started it and let it come up to operating temp before checking it.

 

Doubtful any damage has been done. But don't leave it overfull. Drain some out into a clean container, then top it up properly with what you removed, and properly discard the excess.

Next, learn to do your own changes so this doesn't happen again, or, learn check the levels immediately upon having the vehicle serviced. It's just as likely to be low as overfilled.

As Rock said, check the PCV valve for proper function. Especially in light of this new information. If it's filthy, or stuck, a new one is a cheap item to try (and you'd need it anyway) and see what happens next.

However, smoke on a cold start after sitting is still more likely to be a valve stem seal issue. Crossing fingers you get lucky though.

 

Took my truck back and they drained the oil to the proper level.My wife took it so I don't know how much they took out but since then I have not seen any smoke. I will check it from now on before I leave.Thanks for all the advise