Smoking engine

[GK5268]

Many thanks again for all your comments.
The pistons and rings were both from The Seven Workshop.
The new rings were black and look like cast iron.
If the rings were at fault would the oil and compression test not show more improvement?
I have a set of Tony's valves from Beaulieu and valve guides on their way. I guess this will once and for all determine if it is the bores or guides.
Many thanks.
Adrian.

I had cause a few weeks ago to strip down my re-built engine (done last August) to replace a sheared off crankcase/block stud (don't ask...), took it all to bits and while I was at it (I needed a silver-lining) I fitted the flatter tappet blocks that I had been wanting to fit, so took the opportunity to do that at the same time.

I had been using a straight 30W, put it all back together with a new head gasket, changed the oil to 20/50 (Comma), the clouds of blue exhaust smoke has gone and the exhaust smells quite different, the sickly sweet smell has gone. I have not yet monitored actual oil consumption, but a big difference with what is coming out of the exhaust pipe!

My pistons & rings were supplied by Jamie too.

The replacement tappet blocks have made an improvement to the car's ability to climb hills, much more of a bark and in top gear cruising, the engine is quieter and the revs seem to be down, can really get the engine to idle really slowly, it seems to be much better!

Too soon to know what the fuel consumption is, but imho, it was well-worth it and my silver-lining to a problem that I didn't want!