Steam?

[TonyAmalfitano]

Is it normal to see some steam from the exhaust in a diesel powered boat? I had a mechanic on board for the test ride after installing the new transmission, he didn't seem concerned at all. I think I'm gun shy, I noticed the steam just before I lost the trans. I come from a sailboat, sailboats don't make steam.

[chiefrcd]

Yes, I have steam all year round, more in cooler water, less in warmer water...but always there. I always walk back and look over the side to check the flow....a old habit from running the UTB41 footer.

[DougSea]

I often see it while I'm at cruising speed and above. Made me a little nervous at first but watching my gauges showed no problems...used to it now.

[tomcat rio]

i'm thinking as along as its white and disapates rapidly and you don't have a sooty residue around the exhaust, it should be okay. i have a new 310 peninsular and do see the white mist back there. you may see some dark emmisions when adding power too rapidly. i think this would be unburned fuel, which i think is normal also.

[jleonard]

Steam at or approcahing full power is ok, but I say that if you have steam at low power levels then there is a raw water problem someplace that needs to be solved. (The engine coolant temp may be ok as that will be one of the last indications of a raw water issue).
The exception might be if the raw water is rather cold...say in the low 50s or less.
That's my experience.
Jay

[Mariner]

We see steam at all speeds here most of the year. The water is usually well below 60 degrees and in the 40's all winter. Only in the summer in the shallows does it top 70.

This has been true of every diesel we've ever owned, including sailboats.

[TonyAmalfitano]

Thanks guys, I feel a lot better now.