I just bought a 1986 Prelude. Seems like a great car for $800! I noticed smoke coming from the engine bay after driving. Had oil seals replaced, valve cover gasket replaced, and axle seals replaced at the advice of the 'Certified Honda ' mechanics at our local dealer. Guess what? Still smokes!?! Anybody have this problem before? Please advise.

 

How long ago did you have this work done? Could there still be oil build up on the exhaust that is still smoking? Have you looked under the car to see if there are any oil leaks left?

 

what color is the smoke?

i believe white is a blown headgasket isnt it??
green is antifreeze int he engine.

 

The work was done monday. I turned around and took my car back monday night to let them have another shot at looking at it. About two weeks ago they said that it was old oil cooking off. Still smoking strong. Appears to be white smoke. This is my first car so I'm new at getting under the hood, and there seems to be a whole lot under the hood!

 

So you just had it done yesterday? Or 2 weeks ago Monday?
If it was recent it could be the crap still burning off. Or it could be still a leak. With the engine cold I would take a towel and try cleaning off the exhaust pipes a little around the engine. See if you can't get some crap off. While your under there look for wet spots. They will be pretty easy to see.

 

Steam clean the motor! With the engine running use a pressure washer and spray then engine down, be careful not to nail the alt, distributor, fuse panels, anything electrical..... you will still get a little water on them which won't be a problem as long as the engine is still running and hot. IF you spray any of those components you will not be able to start your car for awhile.

 

Took your advice and found another leak rather easily! It was the seal aroung the oil filter. Replaced it and presto! NO MORE SMOKE!!!
Thanx!!!

 

I wouldn't advise steam cleaning the engine. Steam is a lot more likely to get into things like the alternator, distributor, etc....
I would say with the engine off and cold, get some engine degreaser and go to town. Throw a plastic bag over the parts you don't want to get wet and just be careful when rinsing it. Then Run the car after to dry it off.