Smoke Levels

[Railman]

My 90 Tdi has just passed 100k and when accelerating hard a cloud of black smoke can be seen in the mirror, performance seems unaffected and mpg is also fine, is it normal at this mileage or are there any quick checks I can do myself, before I have to go to a specialist?

[wood73]

it depends how thick and black the smoke is, if it is just generally dark and dirty - try changing the fuel filter.

if it is thick black- could be a seal in the turbo.

i'd try the filter first.

[raymac]

My 90 Tdi has just passed 100k and when accelerating hard a cloud of black smoke can be seen in the mirror, performance seems unaffected and mpg is also fine, is it normal at this mileage or are there any quick checks I can do myself, before I have to go to a specialist?

 

i think you will find that most diesels even brand spanking ones will churn out black smoke when floored,

i would only be worried if this was happening when driving normally :rolleyes: so forget the specialist and put your wallet away.

 

My 90 Tdi has just passed 100k and when accelerating hard a cloud of black smoke can be seen in the mirror, performance seems unaffected and mpg is also fine, is it normal at this mileage or are there any quick checks I can do myself, before I have to go to a specialist?

 

what year and spec is your gal

[Guest MATT jr]

some black smoke can be expected - its when its a smoke screen some slight concern should be expected.

 

ours smokes a little when flooored.

 

MJR

[Railman]

1998 TDi 90 bhp

[Jeff115]

1998 TDi 90 bhp

 

http://www.tdiclub.com/TDIFAQ/TDiFAQ-8.html#j

'Smokes under full acceleration:

- For the older models, and for engines which have been "hot-rodded" by various means, some smoke under full acceleration may be normal. To minimize or eliminate it, check the following items.

 

- Check the air filter and intake system as described elsewhere.

 

- Incorrect fuel injection timing. See section 7.k.

 

- Injectors may be clogged. Try using a good-quality diesel fuel injector cleaner at the next fill-up.

 

- Poor quality fuel. Try filling up at a different station to see if that has any effect. Biodiesel has been reported to reduce the amount of exhaust smoke.'

 

I'd agree with Matt Jr - sounds normal under heavy acceleration particularly on a still day but try some Redex or equivalent in your next fill.

Regards,

Jeff.