rings or valves

[hrdcormx]

I am looking for a second opinion as to the problem that I am facing. First a little background on the car. It is a 1995 Eclipse GST with a 7 bolt with 160,XXX miles. The car is stock, with the only modification to the car being a K&N FIPK. When I got the car it was not running. I had a very reputable machine shop rebuild the head, and I replaced the head gasket and timing belt of course. The car ran great for about 5,000 miles. Then all of the sudden there is oil in the intercooler piping and smoke coming out of the exhaust. I replaced the turbo with a known good turbo, same problem with oin in the lower intercooler piping. When the car is first startedsmoke is minimal, but if the car is reved the smoke increases and continues at an increased level when the car returns to idle. I have started to pull the engine apart in the car and the problem seems to be with the outside cylinder on the passenger side. Here are some pictures that I took of that cylinder on the exhaust side

You must be logged in to view this image or video.

The outside cylinder

You must be logged in to view this image or video.

The cylinder next to it

You must be logged in to view this image or video.

Any one have any ideas? Any help is greatly appreciated

 

[gpsturbo]

I believe it to be valve stem seals. It usually isn't a piston due to it being number 4 cylinder, as your mods are minimal. If you have a compression tester, this can help. Check your book to find out the proper ways to check rings, but 9 of 10 times it is valves. Stem seals are not that hard to change if you follow the maintenance book, and they are cheap. Hope this helps

 

[hrdcormx]

Turns out that it was the piston. Time for a rebuild or 6 bolt

You must be logged in to view this image or video.

 

[Krais]

Ouch man, Id honestly try to pull a 6 bolt. You rebuild this engine, In the future it will crankwalk. See if you can't get a rebuilt or used 6 bolt, Maybe pull one from a car that was totalled. Best of luck to you!