I want to purchase a 1968 Toronado I just looked at.
However it has a "blow by" problem. White smoke coming from engine somewhere.
Does anyone have any experience with such a problem and what are my options as far as repairing it? Is it an expensive fix?
The owner said the engine was rebuilt in 1985.
The car is gorgeous otherwise.
Suggestions anyone?

 

White or blueish white. Does it clear after idling? Does it come out exhaust or breathers or both. If you can, run a compression check before you buy. How many miles after rebuild, and are there any documentation on rebuild. Could be as simple as valve seals, or a more serious problem. And last, how cheap can you get it for?

 

Where?

- Eric

 

The smoke is definitely white and it is coming from the breather hose. The hose sprays the air filter pan with oil.
The owner drove the car around the block but it sputtered the whole way.
When he parked the car it would stall when he tried to let it idle on it's own.
What are some best vs worst case scenarios I could find myself in if I decided to buy the car.
I appreciate the input, I really love the car and might be able to buy it for $3500.

 

Here's a pic of the car's engine. If this helps at all.

 

I think you have to ask yourself how much more money you can put in it. With current condition you can't really evaluate the rest of the drivetrain, you need a good test drive to do that. Also how much of the mechanical work you can do yourself. BIG difference if you have to pay someone else to work on it.

 

Does the white smoke smell like antifreeze? If so, its got a blown head gasket (at least).

Otherwise, it could be anything from bad rings, to destroyed rings and pistons, to a holed piston. Gut impression is that the engine will have to come apart, though.

As m said, a compression test is essential here.

- Eric

 

Had blow by on my 67 Toro 425. It started on the return trip from Florida a few years ago. It was the piston rings that were not sealing properly. Re-ringed the engine and replaced other stuff while it was out. Just a matter of old age.
Brian

 

Ballpark, how much would it cost to do a similar repair?
Thanks

 

Did it all myself, with extras like 3 angle valve job, hardened seats, gasgets,full set of bearings (TRW), chrome piston rings (perfect circle), new water pump and fuel pump. 15yrs ago it was about $2,500 complete. Add another $1,000 to $1,500 for today or eliminate some of the stuff I did. These are also Canadian prices too.
Brian