White smoke on start up

[Hugh]

I have a 2011 street glide with 5500 miles and this morning when I started it white smoke came out can anyone tell me why? Is this normal? The temp out side was about 71

 

[tcuzz]

I get a little bit of white smoke at start up first thing in the morning from the left muffler only. It goes away after warm up so I figured it was just condensation build up. Since the bike is leaning on the jiffy stand it makes sense that it only comes out the left side.

 

[FLHX14]

How many miles are on the clock?

 

[Spazz]

White/blue on startup only could be valve guide seals. Oil will run down valve stems into the cylinder... thus the blue/white cloud on startup. Been there....

Sent from Note4 via TapaTalk

 

[Hugh]

5500 miles I bought it from a Harley dealer as pre owned

 

[Hugh]

This is the first time it's done it. I have had it about a month so it could be the seals??

 

[Spazz]

Keep an eye on your oil... check it 5-10 minutes after parked, each time you ride. document your mileage. if you notice oil consumption, start and detailed log of mileage and oil levels on the dipstick. I had other issues other than bad valve guide seals and was going thru 1.5 qts every 1000 miles.

Keeping a detailed log will save you time later if there is an issue with oil consumption and have to bring it in... they will make you do it... so if its done... you are a step ahead.

 

[Hugh]

If is it a seal or something leaking oil would that be covered under the esp warranty since it only has 5500 miles? They told me I wasn't due for a service till 10,000

 

[Spazz]

yes.. it will be covered... BUT.. you need proof and details. So.... if you notice your oil consumption ( if you have any... this is ONLY a scenario right now)tart documenting mileage and oil loss with pics of level on dipstick

 

[preacherbo]

Generally a little white smoke on start up is nothing to worry about. It is condensation. Blue smoke is what you need to worry about. That is usually a sign of oil consumption.

 

[CrBear]

Interesting Topic.. Buddy noticed what he thought was white smoke from mine. Then realized I was low on oil after 10k service. Since then I've had to put 2 1/2 quarts in. Good advice Spazz, I'll start taking pics and logging miles.