We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post.
Leaks in your vehicle’s vacuum system or exhaust can cause significant performance issues, leading to rough idling, poor fuel economy, or even engine misfires. The Solary Automotive Smoke Machine Leak Detector is a reliable tool for finding these leaks efficiently.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to use the Solary smoke machine to detect leaks in your vehicle. We’ll cover the setup process, how to perform the test, and the steps to pinpoint the leak accurately.
Tools You’ll Need:
- Solary Automotive Smoke Machine Leak Detector
- 20 – 30 ml of baby oil or mineral oil
- Power source (12V battery or power adapter)
- Safety gloves and goggles
- Vacuum hose or exhaust tube to be tested
Step 1: Set Up the Smoke Machine
1. Connect to Power:
Plug the Solary Smoke Machine into a 12V power source (e.g., your car’s battery or a power outlet adapter). Most models come with alligator clamps to connect directly to the car battery.
- Pro Tip: Make sure your battery is fully charged to avoid interruptions during testing.
2. Fill the Smoke Machine with oil:
The Solary smoke machine requires baby oil or mineral oil. Fill the tank with the recommended oil until the indicated level is reached. .
Step 2: Prepare the Vehicle for Testing
1. Access the Leak Area:
Identify the system or area you want to test. Common areas include:
- Vacuum System: Disconnect a vacuum line near the engine to introduce smoke.
- Exhaust System: Disconnect the exhaust pipe or tailpipe for smoke entry.
- Intake System: Remove the intake hose if you’re checking for intake leaks.
2. Seal Off Openings:
To get accurate results, you’ll need to seal off any large openings that aren’t part of the test. Use rubber caps or plugs to block these entry points temporarily.
Step 3: Introduce Smoke to the System
- Insert the Smoke Hose:
Attach the smoke machine’s hose to the vacuum line, intake system, or exhaust pipe, depending on what you’re testing. Ensure a snug fit to prevent leaks from around the hose. - Turn on the Smoke Machine:
Switch on the Solary Smoke Machine. After a few seconds, smoke will begin to flow into the system. Allow it to fill the system for a minute or two.
- Pro Tip: Most systems don’t need high pressure. The smoke will naturally find its way through the system, even at low pressure.
Step 4: Look for Leaks
1. Observe the Smoke:
Carefully inspect the entire system for areas where smoke is escaping. Common areas where you might see leaks include:
- Cracks or breaks in hoses or tubes
- Loose fittings or clamps
- Leaks around gaskets
2. Mark the Leak Location:
As soon as you spot smoke, mark the area with chalk or tape for further inspection. You may need to tighten clamps, replace hoses, or repair cracked components.
Step 5: Repair and Retest
1. Fix the Leak:
Once you’ve identified the problem area, repair or replace the faulty part. For instance:
- Replace any cracked hoses or vacuum lines.
- Tighten loose clamps or connections.
- Repair gaskets or seals as needed.
2. Retest the System:
After making repairs, repeat the smoke test to ensure the leak is fully sealed. If no more smoke escapes, the repair is successful.
Step 6: Clean Up and Maintenance
- Turn Off the Machine:
Once the test is complete, turn off the smoke machine and disconnect it from the power source. - Empty Excess Smoke Fluid:
If you’re done using the machine for a while, empty any remaining smoke fluid according to the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid spills or evaporation. - Store the Smoke Machine:
Store the Solary smoke machine in a dry, cool place to keep it in top condition for future use.
Conclusion:
The Solary Automotive Smoke Machine Leak Detector is an essential tool for anyone working on diagnosing automotive leaks. By following the steps in this guide, you can quickly and easily pinpoint the source of vacuum, exhaust, or intake leaks in your vehicle, ensuring smoother operation and better performance.
If you don’t yet have a smoke machine, you can get the Solary Smoke Machine from Amazon here: https://amzn.to/3Tzg39w. It’s one of the best on the market for DIY mechanics and professionals alike.
Additional Tips:
- Always wear gloves and eye protection when working with any automotive system to avoid injury.
- If you’re not sure where to look for a leak, start with common problem areas like the intake manifold or vacuum lines.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that when you click on links to Amazon products on this site and make a purchase, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Your support helps me continue to provide valuable content. Thank you!
