Excessive White Smoke - (& Q' regarding compression test)

[royalflush313]

*1991 318is

I'm noticing a lot of white smoke from the tail-pipe. It is somewhat cold, but in relation to other cars on the road, and also the mild winter that we are having here, I think that it is excessive.
Once it is fully warmed up (when temp gauge is at the half way line), I don't see anymore smoke or at least, limited smoke.

So I have a few questions:

- I think I should do a compression test, maybe I have a headgasket leak? Which fuses or relays need to be removed before I start? After removing, should I start up the car until it stalls before I start the test?

- As far as I know, my coolant isn't leaking - but I think I will mark the level and look for change in level. Visually, the oil looks normal - is there a specific test or way to look for coolant content?

Any other tips would be appreciated.

Thanks

[chuckybob]

compression test fo sheezy, but i dont see why the smoke should stop after its warm. are you sure its not just a small amount of water in the muffler or something? i suppose if you wanted to check for coolant in the oil, you could use an antifreeze tester.

[BahnE30]

it's condensation in the exhaust, dont worry about it....

[Beej '86 325es]

When my head gasket was leaking (it's totally shot now), it'd puff out a big cloud of white smoke at first, then once it was warmed up and driving, it would almost go away completely.

[royalflush313]

it's condensation in the exhaust, dont worry about it....

I don't think it is - but that is certainly a possibility.

When my head gasket was leaking (it's totally shot now), it'd puff out a big cloud of white smoke at first, then once it was warmed up and driving, it would almost go away completely.

that sounds like my car.

Well either way, it doesn't hurt to do a test.

So can anyone tell me about doing a compression test? I just want to know which fuses/relays need to be pulled beforehand (318is).
After that, should I turn the car on until it dies?