In Dec. I tried starting my '98 4.2 F-150 4X2 (120K) in the morning and it wouldn't turn over, I finally got it to turn over and then came a POP. Shut then engine down & restarted, while it started ok the White Smoke Screen started. The vehicle was parked and never driven in this condition. I did start 2 times to move location in yard and seemed to run perfectly except for the cloud, both times were run for less than 2 minutes). I assumed based on the cloud and grey cream on the Oil Cap that the Head Gasket blew, am I correct?
I have started the process of tearing down the motor, currently have the A/I Plenum removed (notice a small bit on antifreeze in one port (is this consistant with the symptoms)? Can anyone provide any advice from this point forward?
1)What gasket set should I get
2) Any other repairs/replacements that should be completed at this time
3)Great Advice

 

It's more likely the lower intake gasket. This was a known weak area on the 4.2 built prior to 1/15/98.

 

thank you glc....If it truly is only the Intake gasket life is great but how do I determin for sure?