2004 spec v blown head gasket

[Jabsher88]

04 spec v, overheating, pouring white smoke, hard to start. Called around to see about getting the head gasket replaced, had a few places mention a problem with some Years. Something about they start burning oil after its replaced. Is that a thing, and should I go ahead and have it replaced, or buy one of these and just swap? https://jdmnewyork.com/product/2002-200 ... dm-qr25de/

[VStar650CL]

04 spec v, overheating, pouring white smoke, hard to start. Called around to see about getting the head gasket replaced, had a few places mention a problem with some Years. Something about they start burning oil after its replaced.

That can happen with any engine from coolant washing out the rings. I'd take a look with a borescope before trashing it. If the walls still have crosshatch and there's no real scoring, just replace the gasket and machine the head if necessary.

[jethbon]

Aside from replacing the head gasket, check the piston rings.