Smokey and The Defender

Could be that the once the engine is hot, small thermal movements allow some water past the head gasket... ie, early stages of a real failure.

Whiteish smoke can mean water in the combustion. Try putting your hand over the end of the exhaust after the engine is warm & running. If you can get somone to rev it at the same time it'd be useful. If your palm gets wet, suspect a head gasket... regular coolant level checks is another way, of course.

Hope this helps.

Another thought.

Blue smoke usually means burning oil so it could be more evidence for a head gasket. ie combined leak of water and oil-way into a cylinder. Check for white/biscuit coloured sludge in the oil filler cap (which would mean water is also getting into the crankcase)

The worst case scenario, you've a cracked piston block. Indicated from the blue smoke.

I used to own a SIII which puffed white smoke upon start up, but once fired up it's fine. In my case, i believe that when left overnite, there will be water condensation in the engine block itself or fuel line.

cheers for your reply. stipped the head off, gasket blown and head cracked on exhaust port 3. now sorted and back on the road. thanks for your time

Karlos

thanx for your reply. head gasket had blown, along with a head crack on exhaust port 3. now sorted and back on the road where she belongs. thanx for your time

Karlos