What might be a sign of a failing injector in a diesel engine?

A failing injector in a diesel engine can lead to several noticeable symptoms, and white smoke from the exhaust along with reduced engine power are two prominent signs.

White smoke typically indicates that fuel is not being burned properly in the combustion chamber. This could result from a faulty injector that is either not delivering enough fuel or is delivering it in a mist rather than a fine spray. Poor atomization of the fuel can lead to incomplete combustion, which is evident as white smoke.

Additionally, reduced engine power is another critical sign of injector issues. If injectors are not functioning optimally, it can result in an inadequate amount of fuel reaching the combustion chamber during the engine's power stroke. This lack of fuel can significantly affect engine performance, leading to a noticeable loss of power, especially under load conditions.

The combination of these two signs—white smoke and reduced engine power—marks the correct answer, as they are closely linked to the behavior and functionality of injectors in a diesel engine. Recognizing these symptoms can help in diagnosing injector issues early, thereby preventing further engine damage and ensuring optimal performance.