I replaced the copper washer and the rubber o ring on the #1 & 2 element about a month ago. It stopped the leak, but now my car kicks pretty good (and with every kick gives off quite a bit of smoke) a little bit on start up until it warms up a little bit and smooths out. I did remove the nuts and holders to do this job. Could this be the source of my problem? Does driving it like this cause damage to the IP?

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1983 300SD White with Grey interior