i would think it means steam coming out the tail pipe on start up. yes after running a few minutes this will not show. it will still be leakning however. the residual pressure in the system will push some water into the combustion chamber after shutdown until the pressure is gone. then on startup poof steam.

i dont think if there is steam on startup there is any other choice than cracked head or bad head gasket. small chance of cracked block. in any scenario it is head off time.

tom w

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.