just done a really stupid thing had a old escort that never caused a problem in 7 years part fron minor fire that finally killed it ! . when to local auction and bought a 1400 16v s plate golf very very clean and very happy with it apart from it smoking badly ,i've checked the compressons all on 190 so very good checked emisson pipes fom engine all clear and no excess smoke coming out of them ,so i suspect it could be valve stem seals or guides has any one else had this problem please help many thanks shaun g