RPM's surging at idle after head gasket job

[rft607]

05 Equinox. Did a head gasket job and everything went smoothly. Started it up when finished and it ran fine. After reaching operating temperature, the RPM's will start to surge until it stalls. It starts right back up and will happen again a few minutes later. No codes present and it's smoking out of exhaust still, only not as bad and it doesn't smell like coolant. Smells more like it's running rich. Also seems to be a slight backfire when I rev the engine. Any help is greatly appreciated, thanks.

 

[vtbigdog]

What color is the smoke?

White = Head Gasket leak
Black = Rich Mixture

 

[3fingers]

To add;

Blue = Burning oil.

 

[3fingers]

Make sure to have a leak down and compression test to have an idea of your engines health.

 

[ThePapaJohn]

Still having your problem?

Compression check should always be performed pre and post head gasket work. Find out if your introducing an issue or bringing to light a previous minor one....

 

[Shane]

Did u ever resolve the problem? I just did a 2005's head gaskets and have the identical problem? Please advise