Patrick:
In most cars, the symptom of a white/gray puff of smoke (sometimes a big
puff) on initial start up only, does suggest bad valve seals. Basically,
these are small rubber cups that cover the top of the valve stem. If they're
bad, after you shut down the engine, oil in the head can migrate past the
bad valve seal, down the valve stem and into the combustion chamber where it
is ignited on your next start. However, unless you or the prior owner has
installed them, TR6s don't normally have valve seals.
If it were a bad head gasket, I the white smoke would normally continue as
you drive the car, at least for a while. In my humble opinion, this may
still be the source of your problem.
Let's wait to hear what others say. Whatever, it is, I'm sure you can fix it
and have a great summer driving!
Let us know.
Bob Fabie
'75 TR6
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