Smoke at start

[a.Lpha]

I start the car and it gives a serious puff of smoke as it starts. It runs perfectly, but smokes on start, i don't think it's done so much in the past.

 

[Thermactor]

Your valve stem seals are likely the culprit.

 

[a.Lpha]

manifold gasket have anything to do with it in any shape or form?

 

[spf_lexus]

check both vacuum lines that run from the intake tube and manifold to the P/S pump and check for oil. It acts as an idle assist when steering at a dead stop. The valve fails and when started, p/s oil is sucked into the engine. My LS burned oil for 30 seconds once started but it had nothing to do w/ the engine.

If your engine is not consuming oil every month its not big enough of a deal to spend the $1500 to get the seals replaced. Just keep an eye on your fluid levels for a while.

 

[a.Lpha]

I think my car does eat power steering fluid, so I'll take a look at this. I'm on vacation for the next 6 days, but after that I'll check. I also think i'm getting worse fuel mileage atm, but i could be playing tricks on myself.