Hello everyone, so i brought my xc into my mechanic today and he told me i need new valve guide seals/stem seals. Cost would be around $1400 because of all the labor removing the head and all that. Wondering if anyone has experience with this issue: (burning oil/smoke out tailpipe and dipstick tube etc...). He recommended using higher viscosity oil as well MaxLife 10/40. I'd prefer not to pay for the repair as it's nearly half the cost of the car itself. I figured i would watch the oil level and keep on keepin' on. Bad idea? is the repair worth it in the long run? ~1998 xc @ 164k miles. Any response/experience is much appreciated.
Thanks!

"don't sweat the petty, pet the sweaty"

 

I would personally try to replace the seals with the head on car utilizing compressed air. Still a big job. However, I would check the PCV system first and verify that it is functional before tearing into the engine. Also, the turbo can cause oil burning if it is worn. Definitely things to check before tearing into the engine.