I was just out at the 98 Blazer, and while in was running I noticed a very strong odor from the exhaust, then looked to find light (white?) smoke coming out. There was also alot of condensation coming out as well. I immediately shut it down and waited a few minutes. I checked the oil level to find it had about
1 QUART in there!! What the heck? So I am burning oil I guess, but what is it?

Thanks, Matt

FOLLOW-UP:

I wanted to ad that the truck is running great,it is not running hot, (cool actually), andit was a little low on coolant (about 1/2 gallon). Thanks

 

White smoke is generally a sign that you are burning coolant. Blue smoke oil and black smoke fuel. If you have topped up your oil and coolant, check both levels every time that the engine is cool.
It,s possible that you have a leaking intake, drawing coolant into the cylinders and burning it.
I would also check the condition of the oil for looking grey and milky for a possible head gasket. I'm surprised that you say the engine runs fine.

How often to you check/change the oil....to find it so low?

 

Thanks for the information. I usually change the oil every 3K miles, although I am overdue right now. I am going to change the oil today and see what happens. Just can't wait to see what the oil looks like! When I was looking at the oil level yesterday, the oil was very low but seemed normal in color and consistancy. As far as ever finding it low.......Never! I am going to follow your advice and change /monitor the oil and coolant. I am preparing for the worst and hoping for the best. I will post again after I do the oil change.

Matt

 

Diagnose the problem first if possible. If you have a coolant leak into the oil, it should be grey and frothy, and you'll just have to drop the oil again if you change it before fixing the leak.

If you change the oil before starting it, look for water to come out of the drain first. If that happens, you know you have a big coolant leak.

I don't understand how your oil could be low and you could state you have "one quart". That won't show on the dipstick and you'd have to drain and measure the oil to make that statement. I suspect you mean something completely different.