jfrahm

Blue smoke on startup is often guides/seals, however new seals may only last a few months. If the guides are worn the new seals are soon worn out again.
If it were my car I'd leave it and keep an eye out for a low mile engine from the pick-n-pull. Assuming the chassis warrants that sort of investment.

BrianC72gt

The PCV is the round black hockey puck looking thingy on top of the engine near the firewall on the driver's side.

d2noob

the blue smoke was noticed at start up and while it's idling. I'm guessing the valve guides are part of the valve stem itself?

Ah I've always wondering what that thing was. Now I know. Thanks!

hillpc

The valve guides are part of the cylinder head. I don't know if they are easily replaced or refurbished (say by knurling and remachining) in our vehicles. I'd think the heads have to come off.

d2noob

Ah ok. Is there a way to test the valve guides to see if they need to be replaced?

hillpc

If the guides are worn they'd allow the valve, when opened, to be able to be wiggled side to side. A dial indicator could tell you, but you'd likely have to pull the valve springs off to be able to check this. Of course you'd have to pull the valve springs anyway to replace the seals. I wonder if there's a way to somehow pull a vacuum or pressure to learn anything about valve stem to guide clearance?

d2noob

Thanks for the info

rbjones17

I replaced the valve stem seals on my A8 3 years ago when I had the heads off for other reasons. I purchased a slide hammer puller to get the old ones out. They were really stiff compared to the new ones. I also purchased the valve spring compressor tool from Baum tools. Getting the keepers in the valves was a tedious process.