Puff of smoke on start-up

Its prob just some sort of oil buildup in the exhaust, possibly from just tootling around in traffic. I assume you mean that you've left it for 1/2 an hour on a hot day AFTER using it. If there was any wear in the cylinders then it would show up all the time, not just on start up, so I wouldnt worry about that. I guess it depends on what you call significant.... like if it was James Bondian like smoke screen I'd be worried.

paulh

Richard,

Sounds like typical valve guide seal wear to me. When the engine is hot the oil is thin and will pass through the smallest split in the seals. If the rings were shot then it would pour oil out all the time.

You should be able to get a head set for a reasonable cost (This will include the valve seals)

Thanks

Stu

Richard,

Its just the nature of the beast; nothing wrong just oil leaking down the valve stems.

Regards, B.D.

That has always indicted worn valve guides, in my experience. Oil simply drips past them from the top of the engine when you shut down, and upon re-start, that oil is burned off. That is why it is only a momentary thing. Until something else goes wrong...live with it is my advice, as the expense is too great if all you are going to do is get rid of the puff of smoke.

For some reason I thought that Jaguar did not fit valve stem seals on the (at least 3.6) XJ40 engine.