Hi guys. Am a new member and first-time poster. Been reading through some threads and must say this seems to be a top forum.
Recently acquired a 94 TS Executive sedan 2.6L efi 4 cyl auto from an auction with no logs or service history (but for $400 maybe too much to ask?). Done 176000Ks on odo. One-click start and runs fine but noticed a bit of smoke (bluish-white) coming from exhaust and what seems to be water (about a teaspoon) also at the exhaust pipe outlets when idling. From other threads it looks like a head gasket and stem seals change is in order. Question: Saw on ebay Ringwood Auto selling MAGNA TM TN TP TR & TS VRS GASKET SET for $59. Is this set sufficient for my needs and is the price right? i.e does it have all the seals I need or should I get a full overhaul kit for about $200.

Cheers.

I have used ringwood before several times
that VRS kit is all you need to do a head

the water out of the exhaust is condensation

full gasket set has the oil sump gasket, oil pump gasket , timing cover gasket
front and rear engine seals

you could always whip out your spark plugs then disconnect the ignition coil then crank the engine and see if coolant comes out the spark plug hole. im not taking responsibility if you injure yourself because of this though :D

Usually worth doing the chains ($100 chain/guide kit from Ringwood is fine as well) as well while you're at it (do they rattle on idle when warm?). And have the head crack tested while you get them to machine it and pop in the stem seals ;)

Just did all this and I was perfectly happy with the Rjngwood parts - they even sent it all to my door by courier for $9!

Thanks for the replies. Not sure if its only condensation out of the exhaust since its now dripping onto the floor - not much though. If its condensation it should just burn off right? Rattles initially after start, but then goes away but it will be worthwhile to do the chain/guide since no service records. Now the missus is due with our #3 at anytime now so I dont want to start on it yet in case it goes tits up on me and we dont have a car when we need it most. Is it a good idea to put in something (abro granules maybe???) just to keep it going till when work can start or is it not worth my while and just use the car only when needed? Whats the best stuff to use for the smoke and water anyway?

Cheers.

My Tr is pretty much same, 2.6 auto exec with 176572 km on the clock. Mine has actually rusted the back muffler out from the condensation. Are you loosing coolant from the radiator/having to top it up all the time ? Mine when I bought it had Castrol GTX2 oil in it which I reckon is crap. I put 1 cup of diesel with the oil and ran it for a few minutes till warm. I then drained it put a new oil filter as well as penrite HPR 30 engine oil. I have also added a bottle of wynns oil seal conditioner which has improved it marginally. The only problem I have now is a lifter tick for a few seconds on start up if not driven for a few days. It has cut the smoke down, but unfortunately they haven't made valve stem seals in a bottle yet. If your not having to top up your coolant then you don't need to worry about a head issue, gasket, crack etc.