Basics Exhaust Smoke

The general condition of a diesel engine can be determined by

the type of smoke it emits. ( This can be termed " The pulse of
the engine" ). A healthy engine emits light brown smoke. And
if you look at the area surrounding the exhaust outlet, it will
appear hazy, with barely visible smoke. However, if the engine
emits black, blue, white or grey smoke, this is a signal that
something is wrong.
Exhaust Smoke: Black
This indicates improper combustion.
This could be due to :
- choked / wrong air cleaner.
- defective fuel injection equipment.
- choked exhaust system or wrong size exhaust pipe.
Exhaust Smoke: Blue
This is emitted when oil begins to burn in thecombustion chamber.

Possible causes :
- Excess oil in bath type air cleaner.
- Excess oil in the sump.
- Excess lube. oil pressure.
- Worn piston rings or liners.
Blue Smoke
- Worn valve steam or valve guides.

Exhaust Smoke: White

Indicates the presence of water in the combustion chamber due to :
- Cracked cylinder head
- Cracked or damaged liner
- Water in diesel
-Burnt/damaged cylinder head gasket White smoke is dangerous specially
when emitted by a water cooled engine, as it can lead to a hydraulic lock and
extensive damage to the engine. White Smoke
Exhaust Smoke: Grey

1. This smoke is a combination of the Blue and

White smoke.

2. This smoke indicates that the engines requires

a major check up and possible overhauling.

Grey Smoke