water based fog machine - can I use to troubleshoot vacuum leaks

[channer]

Hi all

Can I use and is it safe to use a water base fog machine to troubleshoot vacuum leaks?

There's a "halloween" fog machine on sale at Walmart.

dave

[Steve Wood]

I would not....not sure any kind of smoke machine is what is needed to troubleshoot vacuum leaks...boost maybe but then, I don't see it there either...I guess I just need to get on a band wagon?

[Pyro6]

The ones we use for finding EVAP leaks for emission testing use baby oil . Great for finding all kinds of leaks: vacuum, oil, exhaust etc..

[gnonyx]

The ones we use for finding EVAP leaks for emission testing use baby oil . Great for finding all kinds of leaks: vacuum, oil, exhaust etc..

That's interesting of using baby oil; can you please explain the procedure of using the baby oil?

[Pyro6]

I bought mine thru Mac tools, other co's. sell them. A small reservoir holds the oil, hooks to car battery power for small heating element. Attach shop air to machine and adjust to INCHES of WATER as needed. Attach smoke output to evap test port for emissions, or PCV or brake booster for vacuum leaks. Block off anywhere smoke would come out, normally like throttle body inlet.

[channer]

thanks all.

I guess I need to find the proper automotive DYI kit.

dave

[Charlief1]

Check out a smoke machine that you can get for concerts. One of the guys I know bought one for around $25 and has been using it without any problems. I believe most guitar shops would have them.

[Pyro6]

The thing with smoke machines is you have have to watch the pressure you're pushing. When it comes to emissions it depends on how much of a leak your chasing to set a check engine light. Otherwise most smoke mediums will work. Water is a def no-no. Just don't overpressure to damage the stuff your checking. I like Steve's method, great for sniffing out air leaks.

[G-boz]

I work for a HVAC wholesaler, and we sell " smokeys". They are a small capsule that smokes so you can see leaks, air travel, current..ect.. They come in a box.

[SuperSix]

IIRC, Ed China from Wheeler Dealers used a smoke machine in a car to check replaced window seals. Pretty cool idea.