Diesel Generator Smokes

[Dyno Bill]

I'm getting bad light gray smoke from my onan 5.5 quiet diesel. Really bad at start up them thins some after a couple of minutes. Also really smelly and embarasing as we are in the middle of a 2 week trip. Please help!

[Twomed]

Changed air filter lately? Rich start usually means lack of air.

[Ray,IN]

I agree, the first rule of owning a diesel: Keep all the filters changed per maintenance schedule! After changing the air filter, I would add the proper ration of Performance Formula - Stanadyne to your MH fuel tank once a month. This will clean both your diesel engines fuel systems. Does your genset have a fuel filter? How long since it's been changed?

[Dyno Bill]

Thanks for the replies. Filters are all new. Could be altitude related? We are camped at 7800'.

[Ray,IN]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dyno Bill Thanks for the replies. Filters are all new. Could be altitude related? We are camped at 7800'.

Yes that could be. A non-turbo diesel engine will run too rich at high altitude, when set-up for low altitude. Same as an old carburetor auto would.

[Twomed]

Yeah mine starts rich at Yellowstone (7730') too. Works fine here in FLA but the scenery is not as good.

[Dyno Bill]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Twomed Yeah mine starts rich at Yellowstone (7730') too. Works fine here in FLA but the scenery is not as good.

How did you know we were in Yellowstone? We,re in Grand Teton now, about 1000' lower and it's running better.

Thanks for the replies, all.

[Twomed]

Ranger at Grant Village...altitude just rang the bell. AND...you aren't the first with the question this summer or last. It's a mountain thing.

Safe travels... 93 back here in FLA..yuck!