Help a new m42 owner. e36 style

[grtechguy]

cross posting from bf, but need to know from the experts if there is anything else I should check for before setting the head back on

Ok.. here go's

About a month ago, I bought a 92 318is. (ok according to the vin a 325is with a m42 engine). I bought it with the following background:

1. Radiator and Waterpump had just been changed. Visual check confirms a bright shiny new radiator.

2. Starter shot, car won't turn over. Starter shorted out the test machine at the local parts store. I just had to laugh at this point.


So,


I put in a new-to-me starter, reinstalled the intake, charged the battery and started the car.

promptly filling my garage with white smoke....grrr....

OK, fine sounds like a head gasket, got online, ordered a new h.g. and profile gasket (since I hear they are famous for blowing out).

Got the head pulled off and cleaned.

It is NOT warped. at all. I don't see any cracks.

so, I guess my question is, what does a bad profile gasket look like?
any thing else cause lots of white smoke?

[christophbmw]

does the smoke dis-apate (i think thats how you spell it) fats, or does it linger? if it lingers it is oil burning which could be many things, if it lingers then it is coolant that is being burnt which can only mean one thing.....head gasket. have you drivin the car with the smoke problem to see if it will clear out?

[nickmpower]

have it pressure tested at a machine shop