Is it normal for the caterpillar 416 backhoe to exhaust white smoke under compression?

Yes, it is relatively normal for a Caterpillar 416 backhoe, or any diesel engine, to emit white smoke under certain conditions, such as during cold starts or when the engine is under heavy load. However, continuous white smoke may indicate issues like unburned fuel due to improper fuel injection, low engine temperature, or coolant entering the combustion chamber. It's advisable to have the engine inspected if the white smoke persists or is accompanied by other symptoms. Regular maintenance can help prevent these issues.