OverHeating - 5.7 Hemi

[SHLMDodge]

Hi, I have a 2004 Dodge RAM1500 5.7 Hemi truck.
It has a couple related, or non-related issues of what appears to be overheating and throwing out P0303, P0305 and P0300 errors
When I start the truck there is some white smoke and I can smell the engine coolant.
I drive it for 5 - 10 minutes and the temperature gauge needle goes all the way to the right then after a few seconds or a minute, it settles down.
For the over-heating the mechanic replaced the radiator, water-pump and thermostat. Still same issue.
The error codes they replaced all 16 spark plugs and ignition coils. The error codes went away for a bit, but have returned.
I have been told this may be a head gasket as another sign is its using up coolant.
I don't see any leaks around the engine and below it on the ground.
Looking for suggestions on trouble-shooting the issue, or what the issue may be.
Thanks

 

[Brando_SLT]

Likely a bad head gasket. If you plan to DIY, pull the spark plugs and check for coolant in the cylinders with a bore-scope. Or do the block test.

I can attest that doing a head gasket is not the most difficult project, but be prepared for it to be tedious.

 

[chefred112]

when you get the code next, pull the plug corresponding to it (p305 is misfire on cylinder 5) and compare it to a plug that doesnt have a code...but sounds like it could be a head gasket... no tapping sounds?

 

[chefred112]

are you using a stock tstat? I would try a 180 and see if that changes anything...

 

[Redtruck-VA]

When cold starting the thermostat is closed, causing the engine to come up to temperature quickly. Often you can see the thermostat hang and the temp goes slightly above normal operating temp and then open and temp settles into normal range. No way should the guage go all the way right before settling. I would remove thermostat and check it in a pan of water with a thermometer. A good thermostat with transition to it's open position smoothly. You can do a hydrocarbon test detemine if the head gasket is leaking into a cylinder.