Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) White smoke puff at startup

[TWilkening]

I've noticed here just recently that if I let my truck sit for a day or two then start it, the puff of smoke is white. It starts right off. If I start it more often, the puff is black like usual. Don't know if it's just this tank of fuel or what. Fuel pressure is 14 psi at idle measured at the Schraeder valve on the inj. pump. I figure this is nothing to be concerned about, but just curious if it might be something more.

 

[NoSeeUm]

Sounds about normal to me, hopefully a few others will chime in.



Jim

 

[Vaughn MacKenzie]

Dying injection pumps often cause white smoke, hopefully that's not it.

 

[NoSeeUm]

Try waiting for the "Wait to start" light next time your truck has not run for a bit. See if it still puffs white smoke.



Jim

 

[TWilkening]

The light comes on for just an instant. The temps are in the 70-80's range right now, so the heaters don't come on. I do let the pump prime and usually roll the windows down before I start it.

 

[johncameron]

Did you check for codes?

 

[GCULP]

I've had the same sympton on mine ever since I installed my Pac-brake, even through an injection pump change. someone mentioned a possible head gasket leak due to the increased back pressure.

 

[dsherman]

bad valve stem seals

Mine did that and it was bad valve stem seals.

They replaced my head. no more problem.

They replaced the bad valve stem seals a couple of times before they replaced my head.

 

[PHellen]

valve stem seals also, have the same problem. Had my head o-ringed and soon after it would smoke. added cylinder pressure would move the seals.

 

[aviatorman]

My 02 HO does the same thing from time to time, don't believe its any big deal

 

[RTolbert]

Not to worry. Most diesels will puff white at some point in their lifetime. Having worked the construction industry running heavy equipment for a number of years all diesels will puff white at some point in time. My 01 2500 puffs white now and again and has done it since new.