Noticed moderate to minor smoke coming up from between the engine and the manifold, on the drivers side. On closer inspection underneath the rig I noticed that "what I believe to be a catalytic converter" spewing minor smoke. Never noticed any smoke until I did all the work on the power steering system. Could be left over ps fluid which seaped out all over the place, however I've idled the engine for plentysome time not to mention 5 mile test drives so it seems like any leftover ps fluid should have evaporated by now. Second thought would be that leaking oil is getting on the cat and heating up. But not really sure. Do cats usually get smoky over time? Does this mean my cat is bad? Any possible solutions?

Here's where the smoke rises up.


Here's what I believe to be the smokin gun


Here's one of the places where the oil leaks. Between the oil pan and the transmission.


Here's what I believe to be the cause of the oil leak. A homemade gasket sealer. I plan on removing it and installed a legitimate oil pan gasket soon.

 

Power steering fluid will not evaporate but it will burn as will oil so if either are on the exterior of the cat it will produce smoke.