Smokey 20V

[ITBdandSIDEWAYZ]

(11-30-2015 05:05 PM)LarsZ Wrote:  Had the same problem with my 20v engine, replaced stem seals, didnt help, then I've changed the piston rings and that solved the problem. It looked to be the oil control rings that were stuck.

I just pulled apart my 16V and I believe my problem is rings because they look gummed up and were stuck in. I wish I would have known before pulling the engine apart but if you do have problems with piston oil control rings sticking you can try something before opening the engine up. The guys at the dealership I worked at as a mechanic swore by a product called GM Top Engine Cleaner (similar to Seafoam). What you can do is pull the spark plugs and pour 1/2 the bottle into the spark plug holes evenly divided. Let it soak for an hour and pour the rest in. Let that soak overnight and it should free and clean the rings. Make sure to drain the oil and out fresh in and THEN crank the engine with the plugs out. Reinstall the plugs and hopefully your rings are free. Run the engine and don't just drive it like your Grandma. Make sure to change your oil though because the cleaner soaks past the rings.