Welcome! Nice story. It's nice to find people who love Mitsus!

I can't see the pictures, but I'm sure they are cool. You are on the right track concerning the smoke. I'd also change the valve cover gaskets, plugs, wires, thermostat, inspect hoses for cracking while you are in there. I like to install a new fuel filter to around this time. That's not in the area though so you can do that anytime. Have fun!

1992 VR4 12.5 @ 110 - SOLD
1993 Stealth RT/TT 11.4 @ 129 - SOLD
1991 VR4 9.2 @ 159 - Old Shop Car
1992 Stealth Twin Turbo ATX - SOLD
1990 Montero LS LWB - RIP
1995 Montero LS - RIP
1998 Montero
1992 Galant VR4 474/1000
2007 Prius