ashman

See, an "Italian tune-up" isn't just for Ferraris, Maseratis and Alfas but works well on Japanese engines as well. Glad that seems to have fixed your problem.

Now all you have to do is find a new mechanic who is both competent and honest.

sktn77a

iTrader: (2)

So, how were you able to make the sludge diagnosis? This is usually caused by lack of regular oil changes.

carguy07

How were you able to "fix" it by giving it a good hard run?

fastnoypi

If the smoke has been eliminated or subsided, I bet it's not sludge per se, but just oily build up on the catalytic converter. You need to get it nice and hot to get it to operate efficiently or it will clog and break. Long trips or sustained hard driving will get it hot.

sportsmom

No didn't fix it, only smoke lessened a little. So I found the info below and took it to a Lexus dealer and see below A HAH



http://www.oilgelsettlement.com/

kalali

And what did the dealer say? Looks like you forgot to share that tidbit.

sportsmom

They took the engine apart and took photos which were forwarded to Lexus along with recommendations. Calling Lexus today to see what they say. Only 73000 miles on it.

zmatt00

sportsmom - you have a 2002 just as i do, and i only have 60k miles. The oil gel settlement only provides for 8 years of protection from the original sales date. Didn't they deny your claim on that basis alone?

I have not bothered to take my vehicle to the dealership for just this reason. I'd be very interested in knowing that there is a way to get relief even though one's vehicle has exceeded the 8 year settlement period.

sportsmom

So Lexus finally said no and I am having trouble find a engine mechanic to even consider doing this job. I don't know if they can't handle or don't want to. Can you guys just give me a handle on what might need to be done. Why would sludge build up cause grey smoke? and why when it has been sitting for a while is when it is worse. Just need some ideas on how to nail down a few options and what have to be fixed or replaced. Thanks,, Toyota won't touch it says I have to go to Lexus. I took to 2 engine mechanics and both kinda backed down and didn't want to touch it. I guess more of a hassle than the money.

sportsmom

Anyone know a trusted mechanic in Pittsburgh PA?

islandbeef

Yelp.com would probably be your best bet. Here's the top 8 mechs I found in your area.

http://www.yelp.com/c/pittsburgh/autorepair

Otherwise, do a search in the messageboards or just Google.

fastnoypi

I'd have to agree on the hassle part. It is a big job.
To get an idea of whats involved watch this video. At 3:40 is when the mechanic approximately opens the rear valve cover...at 5:00 is when he opens the front valve cover. Then add the time it takes to remove the cams and scrape any thick bits of sludge, then go over everything with a chemical solution to dilute and clean up the rest...then reassemble each side x2!
Hopefully sludge is apparent under one side only.

the grey smoke is from some of the sludge buildup behind the intake valve is pulled by the incoming air and dripped into the combustion chamber.

kalali

It's a thankless job for a mechanic because there is more crappy work involved than a regular engine rebuild estimated hours account for. You might be better off buying a rebuild engine than trying to rebuild yours. With the exception of the crank (may be), There is not whole lot parts than be salvaged from your motor.