Engine Flush

[Golfman]

I have noticed in the last few weeks, that when I start my Solara in the morning, I get a small puff of blue smoke and then it changes to regular exhaust. I have 160,000 km. on the engine and regular oil changes have been done. My mechanic has suggested an engine flush. I have been reading that something like that may be good or bad for the engine. It's a 2.4L engine. Anyone out there with the same problem? I would appreciate any feedback.

[dapqam]

I had this on the same engine in a Camry 2000. I switched to semisynthetic and used Auto-RX maintenance dose and it seemed to fix the problem over time. Probably the problem is leaking through the valve stems as the car sits. When it is started the oil burns off. I also hear that Sea-foam is good. It is a little more agressive than Auto-RX. Just follow the directions and you should be OK. Other people may try an upper cylinder lubricant with success. Unfortunately this problem is due more to wear than a buildup so these fixes can not repair what has been worn away.

[easywind]

You are going to be needing to rebuild the head at some time in the future. There is nothing in a bottle that will help you.

[MasterYota]

It sounds like the pickup tube on your oil pump is clogged. Is pulling the pan off an option? I realize that's pretty advanced work, but I'm guessing your mechanic is probably quoting a pretty high price to do this flush?

Here's two things that should help you get the picture, but if you are going to do it, get the Haynes manual for a Solara specifically and follow it...

http://www.ehow.com/how_4508337_replace-oil-pump-toyota-camry.html