TM 5-3825-270-23&P
FIELD MAINTENANCE
WHITE EXHAUST SMOKE
INITIAL SETUP:
References (cont.)
Tools and Special Tools
Engine Module Replacement (WP 0128)
Tool Kit, General Mechanic's: Automotive
Engine Misfires (WP 0011)
(WP 0225, Table 1, Item 12)
Engine Overheats (WP 0015)
Engine Surges (WP 0010)
Materials/Parts
Field Level Preventive Maintenance Checks And
Cleaning Compound, Solvent
Services (PMCS) (WP 0069)
(WP 0224, Table 1, Item 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,
Fuel Tank Drain/Fill (WP 0174)
15)
Water Distributor Operator Manual (TM
Rag, Wiping (WP 0224, Table 1, Item 52)
5-3825-270-10)
References
Equipment Condition
Cylinder Head And Gasket Replacement
Engine OFF. (TM 5-3825-270-10)
Engine Does Not Reach Normal Operating
Temperature (WP 0016)
TROUBLESHOOTING PROCEDURE
WHITE EXHAUST SMOKE
STEP 1
Does white exhaust smoke appear to be caused by fuel or coolant?
NOTE
White exhaust smoke is caused by condensing liquid in the exhaust system. The liquid
is typically diesel fuel or coolant. Unburned diesel fuel in the exhaust has a strong diesel
fuel odor and causes a severe burning sensation in the eyes. Unburned diesel fuel is
caused by a misfire or incomplete combustion. Too low of a coolant temperature may
result in white smoke due to incomplete combustion. Poor quality fuel or fuel not blended
for the operating conditions may also cause incomplete combustion.
Coolant in the exhaust causes white smoke, along with an odor that can be described as
sweet. White smoke accompanied with coolant loss and overheating indicates that the
white smoke is likely due to coolant in the exhaust.
1.
Start engine and observe engine exhaust. (TM 5-3825-270-10)
2.
Determine if cause of white exhaust smoke is likely from fuel or coolant.
3.
Shutdown engine. (TM 5-3825-270-10)
CONDITION/INDICATION
Does white exhaust smoke appear to be caused by fuel or coolant?
DECISION
Coolant - Go to step 5. (Step 5 - Is engine filled with adequate amount of coolant?)
Fuel - Go to step 2. (Step 2 - Is fuel determined to be adequate for operation?)
0021-1
