Porsche Engine Worries

[84porsche]

My Porsche has almost 200,000 miles and I am curious - what signs should I look for that something is wrong or could be going wrong. They are a few problems but they don't seem major enough to cause concern. The first being shifting from first to second but I just had the short shifter put in and my mechanic mentioned that the shift rod may need replacement. The oil is clean and the engine seems to be running ok. I have alot of the books and have been keeping my eyes open but I would prefer not to have any surprises. Can anybody tell by the sound of the engine or a video if something is not right or out of place and is their any way to post a video(mpeg2). I would appreciate any help. Thanks.

[Matt Holcomb]

How much oil do you think your engine consumes every 600 miles?

Also, if you're traveling downhill and you take your foot off the gas at 5,000rpm, does your engine emit smoke? If so, then your valve guides might be worn.

[84porsche]

I would say maybe a 3/4 of a quart. I try to drive her at least twice a week. I didn't see any smoke going downhill the morning. Everything looked good. Only white smoke from a cold start this morning and a little water from the exhaust line which I believe is condensation.