Immediately following a DIY ball joint replacement, I started my '01Ram 1500, 4x2, 5.2 l for a test ride and thick white smoke began pouring from exhaust. Coolant level normal and oil looks good. No sign of bubbles or air in radiator. Did a compression test and #1 cyl = 160 psi, #7 = 150 psi and all others were 175-180. Not sure how to interpret those readings since low cylinders are not adjacent???? Any and all suggestions are welcome.

 

Does it clear up after a bit?

If it continues to smoke, you probably have a blown head gasket.

Start with the engine stone cold. Fire it up, and then immediately check the upper radiator hose, and see if it is pressurized, if it is, that's a sure sign of blown gasket.

Not just water in the gas is it?

 

I followed your advice and the upper hose stayed unpressurized after cold startup. Someone suggested that sitting with front end jacked up for 7 hrs while changing ball joints could have allowed sludge, water, etc now to the fuel pickup. ???? No performance issues...runs great. Any other thoughts?

 

Has it cleared up?

 

Drive it like you stole it and I suspect it will clear up.

 

I did just that...drove it like I stole it...and it cleared up. Now I know...having the front end raised up for 7 Hrs changing ball joints allowed all that oil to flow to the rear and get on top of the pistons. They are lubed now! Thanks all.