Old Smokey

[oreddie]

I have a new (2015) Thor Citations Sprinter with a diesel powered generator. When I start the generator there's always quite a bit of white smoke, so much so that I stopped using it when other campers were anywhere close, but eventually the exhaust clears of visible emissions. I've also noticed what appears to be soot or carbon residue on the inside of the hatch that covers the generator compartment.

I've only owned propane generators in the past. Is this smoke, smell and soot normal or should I get to the shop before the warranty expires?

Ed
2015 Citation Sprinter 24SR

[saddlesore]

Originally Posted by oreddie

I have a new (2015) Thor Citations Sprinter with a diesel powered generator. When I start the generator there's always quite a bit of white smoke, so much so that I stopped using it when other campers were anywhere close, but eventually the exhaust clears of visible emissions. I've also noticed what appears to be soot or carbon residue on the inside of the hatch that covers the generator compartment.

I've only owned propane generators in the past. Is this smoke, smell and soot normal or should I get to the shop before the warranty expires?

Ed
2015 Citation Sprinter 24SR

Get it to a shop, that indicates some potentially severe issues...ie; bad glow plugs,exhaust leaks plugged air intake or worse!

[EA37TS]

With diesel engines white exhaust smoke is an indication of unburnt fuel leaving the exhaust. This can be normal when first starting a diesel engine and will normally go away after the engine has started to warm.

As to the soot, check for an exhaust leak.

If you take it in for service don't be surprised if the tech tells you this is all normal for a diesel generator.

[oreddie]

Thanks for the replies. It was in the shop for three weeks and while the service tech was able to reduce the amount of smoke somewhat it still has more smoke at startup and heavy exhaust smell long after it's warmed up. I'm going to try to get it replaced under warranty.

I'm hoping they'll agree to replace with propane. I can't see why diesel might be preferred except that fuel is more readily available.

Ed
2015 Citation Sprinter 24SR