I have a '92 Honda Accord Wagon with 228,000 miles in immaculate
condition, and recently passed smog with all readings well below
average.

Recently it overheated due to radiator leak. I pulled over as soon as I
noticed steam, let it cool, and filled up the radiator, drove home.
I replaced the radiator, and everything seemed fine for a few days.
One morning I noticed white smoke coming out of the exhaust, with the
tell-tell sickly-sweet coolant smell. The engine still idled perfectly,
and a couple minutes later the steam disappeared. I checked for water on
the oil dipstick and oil cap; there was none. Also, no sign of oil in
the radiator. I drove it 50 miles on the highway, and checked the water
level when I returned - it was approx. 1 pint low.

It drove OK for the next couple days - white smoke disappearing after
warm-up. Today I started it and the engine ran very rough for the first
15 seconds, then the idle smoothed out. Now the steam was coming out
continuously, although the idle was still smooth.

Researching online, it seems that Honda engines are notorious for
leaking/blown head gaskets after overheating. What I'm wondering is:
In your experiences, what are the chances that it's just the gasket and
not a cracked head or block, or a warped head? I really like this car a
lot, and want to do the job myself (2.2L engine with A/C). I guess I'll
find out soon enough, and I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

Any ideas/suggestions are very much appreciated.

Wish me luck!

Pigeon