You might be able to pull a while without the stem seals, even though it burns one qt every 750 miles. You will eventually need them, it is a bit complex job but you can do it. It will cost you about $25 in parts and 8 hours plus labor. Do a search on the stem seals, you will get a lot of information. The best sign is to check first thing in the mornig, when you start first time and if gives a puff of blue smoke you need stem seals but if it stop smoking after first start, you can buy some time but eventually need to do it. This is a 100K miles item, an indie will charge you $500-$700 to do the job.
As for as burning oil smell, it very well could be leaking valve cover gaskit or leaking tranismission oil which drips overt he exhaust and burns.
Good luck and Keep us posted.

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87 420 SEL
Looking for a nice mid 80's MB diesel.
87 BMW 528e (Sold)
99 TOYOTA 4Runner
1989 Honda Accord (Sold)
1988 Honda Accord (Total)