Note: Some white smoke may be present during cold start-up conditions when the engine is operating normally. If the white smoke persists, there may be a problem.
- Cold mode
- Starting aids (if applicable)
- Coolant temperature sensor
- Water temperature regulators
- Engine speed/timing
- Injectors
- Engine parameters
- Fuel supply
- Component wear
- Cooling system
- Turbocharger
Excessive white smoke emissions may occur during cold mode operation of the engine. During cold mode operation of the engine, the Electronic Control Module (ECM) may modify the injection timing and the ECM may cut out certain engine cylinders. This will increase startability and this will reduce warm up time. Cold mode is activated whenever the engine coolant temperature falls below a predetermined value. Cold mode remains active until the engine has warmed or a time limit is exceeded.
- If a jacket water heater is installed on your application, check for proper operation of the circuit. Repair the circuit for the jacket water heater, if necessary.
- If the application has an ether injection system, ensure that the ether canister is not empty or low. Replace the ether canister if the ether canister is empty or low. If an electrical problem with the ether injection system is suspected, refer to Troubleshooting, "Ether Starting Aid - Test".
Compare the coolant temperature from AVSpare Electronic Technician (ET) to the coolant temperature that is obtained from the 6V-9130 Temperature Adapter (MULTIMETER). Ensure that the temperature readings are reasonable for the conditions that are present.
Check the water temperature regulators for correct operation. Verify that the engine reaches full operating temperature. If the engine does not reach full operating temperature, a water temperature regulator may be stuck open. Remove the water temperature regulator and inspect the water temperature regulator. If necessary, repair the water temperature regulator and/or replace the coolant temperature regulator. Refer to the Systems Operation/Testing and Adjusting manual for the proper procedure.
- Check the calibration of the engine speed/timing sensor. Refer to Troubleshooting, "Timing - Calibrate".
- Verify that the timing of the crankshaft and camshaft drive gears are set with the proper orientation. Refer to Disassembly and Assembly for information that is related to the correct gear installation.
- Perform the "Injector Solenoid Test" on Cat ET in order to determine if all of the injector solenoids are being energized by the ECM.
- Perform the "Cylinder Cutout Test" on Cat ET in order to determine the performance of each cylinder. Refer to Troubleshooting, "Injector Solenoid - Test" for the proper procedure.
Verify that the current flash file has been installed and then verify that the correct engine parameters are being used.
Check the fuel quality. Low cetane fuel can create white smoke. If necessary, replace the fuel with a higher cetane fuel.
- Check the valve lash and reset the valve lash, if necessary. Refer to Systems Operation/Testing and Adjusting.
- Possible causes of low compression are shown in the following list:
- Faulty piston
- Faulty piston rings
- Worn cylinder bores
- Worn valves
- Faulty cylinder head gasket
- Damaged cylinder head
- Perform all necessary repairs. Ensure that the repairs have eliminated the problem.
Check for an internal coolant leak into the cylinder and/or the exhaust. Refer to Systems Operation/Testing and Adjusting for information on inspecting the cooling system.
Inspect the turbocharger for failure of turbocharger oil seal. Remove the exhaust outlet piping from the turbocharger. Visually inspect the piping for the presence of oil. Refer to Operation and Maintenance Manual, Turbocharger-Inspect for additional information.