Steam coming out of exhaust

[Head Sail]

Universal XP25. What is likely cause and remedy?

 

[Don S/V ILLusion]

People often confuse white smoke, steam and condensation on a cool day. Can you differentiate?

 

[Brian D]

In real life, steam cannot be seen and it will burn you, if not cut right through you. So if you think you have real steam then do not use your hand to find out.

If you see what looks like the stuff from coffee pots still be careful. That says the water in the engine is above boiling and therefore could be a cooling issue. You might have a clogged pipe. If you have a raw water intake or a fresh water cooling system have it checked out.

 

[Head Sail]

I was able to make it to shore by running the hot water in the gallery sink to help cool the engine. Since no water is being pushed through with the exhaust I'm suspecting the raw water pump.

 

[Don S/V ILLusion]

Looks like you just answered your own question.

 

[RParis]

We had the same problem, however, since the hot temperature alarm
(yanmar 2GM 20F 1987) did not go off, we concluded it must
have been condensation due to a cool day. Indeed, we did not
notice the "smoke" when the weather was warmer.
Rafael, Tango III

 

[Head Sail]

Thanks all for the suggestions. Looks like it was only a clogged raw water strainer.

 

[sailnoproblem]

Steam

Don't forget to check the impeller in the water pump. Your water intake may also be clogged if it's a raw water cool.
Just suggestions, Had the same problem.

 

[bawlmer]

Also you should probably change your raw water pump impeller. If your clogged strainer caused the pump to run dry for a while the impeller is probably damaged. May save you further aggravation someday.