Exhaust smoke

[winethief]

I own a Westerbeke 46 with about 3500 hours on it. I was told that the last owner had the engine rebuilt. However, it appears I am getting more exhaust smoke even after the engine has warmed up.


When the engine was surveyed 4 1/2 years ago the compression was great in all cylinders. I know diesel throws some smoke but doesn't it subside after it warms up?

Thanks,
Winethief

[dell30rb]

they smoke. It shouldn't be thick though

[SteveInMD]

I assume you are talking about more gray smoke all of the time. Black smoke would be something entirely different.

If you are starting to notice more smoke you may need to adjust your valves, and you may need to have your injectors rebuilt. Neither one of these items is a huge deal. Start with the valves and see if that helps. If you are comfortable with tools you can get a book on marine diesel motors and do the valves your self. You can also pull the injectors and have them sent away to be rebuilt. On my engine the valves should be adjusted every 300 hrs or so. Injectors rebuilt every 900.