Tech Tip: White Smoke Blowing From Tailpipe? – UnderhoodService

Tech Tip: White Smoke Blowing From Tailpipe?

A classic sign of a head gasket problem is when the vehicle is blowing white smoke from the tailpipe. This indicates that water/coolant is entering the combustion chamber and is then burnt off as steam through the exhaust. The white "smoke" is water vapor as the steam condenses when it hits the colder atmosphere.

A classic sign of a head gasket problem is when the vehicle is blowing white smoke from the tailpipe.  This indicates that water/coolant is entering the combustion chamber and is then burnt off as steam through the exhaust. The white “smoke” is water vapor as the steam condenses when it hits the colder atmosphere.

With older vehicles, the owner’s budget or the value of the vehicle means a full head gasket repair is simply not a viable option, yet in many cases the owner needs to keep the vehicle on the road. In this case, a dedicated head gasket sealant could be the economical solution. Ceramic formulas offer the best chances of making a ­successful repair, but look for a formula that is antifreeze-friendly as these are easier to apply and can remain in the cooling system after treatment has been completed. 

This solution is brought to you by K-Seal. Visit www.kseal.com.

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