My 97 3.0 Elite makes a lot of steam when I'm sitting in traffic, although it goes when I'm driving.

Is this normal of the 3.0 V6? I have to top the header tank up every few weeks with coolant, although the engine never mis-fires etc.

Should I be concerned?

It just looks like condensation to be honest mate. From previous experience in old cars I've had, the white smoke from head gasket problems seems to be thick white and lingers around longer.

It does seem to be when the engine is colder and I've only had the car since November, so never had warm weather to tell the difference in.

Not sure about the coolant loss though, as I haven't been able to inspect for leaks properly. I need to check all the hoses, HBV and radiator yet.

I was just wondering if lots of condensation was a common thing?

Jimbob wrote on 11. Jan 2007 at 13:08:


I was thinking HBV, although my heaters work fine and the water doesn't pressurise. I'm guessing if it is that, then mines at the early stages of failure?

I'm meant to be taking the rocker covers off next week, so should give me an opportunity to look at it properly.

bobdent wrote on 11. Jan 2007 at 13:17:



Any idea how much a new HBV is?

Jimbob wrote on 11. Jan 2007 at 13:33:


Queensferry? I go to Vauxhall on Deeside Industrial Park. They supply all the local dealers so they're the best place to go for parts.

I normally get my parts from Autovaux, but I wanted genuine GM rocker gaskets so I'm up at Vauxhall on Saturday to get them.