Kubota White Exhaust Smoke on Cold Start

Kubota generator produces excessive white smoke from the exhaust during startup and initial running.

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Unburned fuel due to low compression, Faulty injectors with poor spray pattern, Incorrect injection timing, Very low ambient temperature without adequate preheat

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Operate the generator in a well-ventilated area. Avoid inhaling exhaust fumes.

  • Check preheat system: Verify glow plugs or intake air heater are functioning (see glow plug and heater fault procedures). Proper preheat reduces white smoke.
  • Fuel quality: Ensure diesel fuel is fresh and appropriate for the temperature (winter blend in cold climates). Drain and replace stale or contaminated fuel.
  • Run to warm up: Allow the engine to reach operating temperature under light load. Some white smoke on very cold start may be normal and should diminish as the engine warms.
  • Injector service: If white smoke persists when warm, have the injectors tested and serviced by a diesel specialist. Poor atomization can cause incomplete combustion.
  • Compression and timing: Persistent heavy white smoke may indicate low compression or incorrect injection timing, requiring professional engine diagnosis.
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Repair Difficulty

Hard 4/5

Required Part

Fuel Injector Set
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