Smoking at idle, 2nd time around

[truck_n]

I have an '01 2500 HD Crewcab with 165,000 towing miles. I love the truck, excellent power, no oil consumption, great mileage. BUT, at 115,000 miles it started to smoke blue at idle. The interaction at the dealer was a nightmare. They could not diagnose the problem correctly, they changed the PCM and injector pump to no avail. Finally they changed 7 of the 8 injectors with used ones out of a warranty moter and that solved the problem. they never were able to pinpoint what the problem was. The same problem is now reoccuring at 165,000 miles. With injectors at $500 a pop, untrained technicians and 30 days down time, as a memory, is there anyone out there with some good advice.

[Maverick]

Sounds like injectors again. I had one replaced at 90,000 and all is well at 122,000. I started using fuel additive after the first injector problem. I did a poll here awhile back and everyone that was using an additive never had an injector problem. Some of those that didn't use had injector issues. Are you using an additive?

[truck_n]

I have not used an additive. I will from now on, THanks

[DIESEL/VETTE]

MAVRICK.

WHAT ADDITIVE ARE YOU USING?

[Maverick]

I first ran Stanadyne and then switched to Shell Rotella DFA. Its easily more avaliable at Sams Club and a bonus is its cheaper. Works good so far.

[dmaxalliTech]

Could be injectors, also might want to check coolant temp sensor and glow plug operation. These can also cause blue smoke

[Kennedy]

If you can get it on a Tech 2 or if a friend/neighbor has a Predator, check the balancing rates of the injectors at idle. This is a good starting point...

[ndamico]

JK,

when checking the balancing rates at idle, what #'s are in spec vs. our of spec? i've looking at the injector balancing with my predator but am not sure if the #'s i'm seeing are good or bad.

thanks!

[Kennedy]

I believe that GM says 3.3mm or higher, but I know that I've seen them at 6+ already.

The balancing rates are just a barometer for a place to start. Other mechanical factors can play into this as well, but we are just loking for something that stands out...

[truck_n]

Kennedy,
Pardon my ignorance, but i'm new at this. What is a tech 2. And given that i'm looking for reliability, longevity and economy, how much will a predator help?

[Maverick]

Tony,
The Tech 2 is the scan tool that the dealer uses. The dealer can check the injector balance with it. If you or a friend has the Predator, it can check injector balance in your driveway instead of going to the dealer. Thats what I believe he was trying to say.