So I've noticed the 'indestructible' KLR is shooting out quite a bit of white smoke when started, going for about a minute or two, then clears. I've been told by a mate this means the 'oil ring' is needing replacement?

With my limited knowledge of mechanics, I assume he means one of the sealing rings on the piston? I'm guessing here that over time they would perish, and thus allow oil up into the compression chamber? (see parts diagram)

Am I correct on this one or am I way off the mark?

Any guidance appreciated!

 

From what I've learned

Bad rings will cause constant smoke (blue smoke)

Valve seals will smoke when started and will clear up. A bit of oil drips by when sitting and then gets burned when started. (Blue smoke)

White smoke is usually coolant burning. (bad head gasket)

I guess you could try a compression test mabey it will help determin if the rings are gone.

 

I'm going to guess valves, I'd check those first. Buddy of mine has a KLR of that year and did the same thing - he did his valve seals and shimmed to specs and it was all better.

Good luck

 

Isnt white more likely coolant?

 

is the coolant level low? if so, take the rad cap off and start the bike (cold) and watch the fluid it should gurgle and move but you shouldn't see any air bubbles in it.

White is usually coolant or water in the pipe, maybe from washing or just extra condensation in a humid climate.

 

My guess is valve seals, but check your oil to see if it is milky with coolant

 

Coolant is right smack in between min and max, where it was when I purchased... Did the fluid test, no bubbles, but also no white smoke out the back. No doubt the bike heard me talking about him and has corrected itself lest I try do some work on him..

Seriously thought, I'm now forming a hypothesis that it's due to the cold and wet weather we've had recently - it smokes when its cold and/or wet, possibly condensation inside the pipe?

 

Smell it - does it smell like burning oil/gas or does it smell like water/coolant vapor?

 

It's got a strong gas smell, but can't be sure if that's just the normal exhaust fumes..

 

Head gasket. Easy fix.