Question about temporary smoking at startup

[Middieman]

Pelicans,

Looking to determine significance of the condition below-

Without having a thorough diagnosis by a shop, I am seeking to get a general consensus on the usual cause for the often cited "car smokes at first start but then is fine" in classified postings.

Question is specific to pre-'84 cars.

My thought was it was due to oil leaks dripping on exhaust components after car has sat for a while or overnight. Requiring engine out and re-seal?

I am speaking of smoke from under the car not coming out of exhaust.

Trying to gather a mental list of possible causes prior to having PPI done.

Thanks for any comments.

[Nico911]

Pretty sure it's oil dripping on the exhaust system. Look for funny smells in the car, it may occur in a case like this car and it's not nice at all...

[Uncle Enzo]

So you are getting smoke at start up and not from the exhaust? If the car is stone cold the exhaust should not be hot enough to burn off oil. A little puff from the exhaust is quite normal but will quickly clear up.

[Bob Kontak]

Have you seen the car or are you asking questions only based on the ad?

[Charles Freeborn]

What Bob sez. It could be simple (valve covers) or it could be worse. Get 'er up in the air and 'ave a look.
-C

[Middieman]

Thanks all,

It was told to me by the owner and I have seen this condition described in ads for a few cars for sale on the forum here.

Getting it up in the air probably will shed more significant light on whats going on.

Not excited about pursuing a car that needs a re-seal right off the bat or living with a significantly smokey exit every time I take it out. I'll see if I can ID where the source is upon seeing the car.

Just to clarify a bit, the smoking was upon taking off after brief warm-up, so the exhaust system I imagine would have some external heat present. Supposedly goes away after driving the car for a few minutes.