Finding vacuum leaks... with a cigar!

[amalik]

lol, Scotty Kilmer is a joke compared to EricTheCarGuy, but I found this and didn't expect in a million years he'd be working on a 3rd gen, what are the odds.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMok2y05jNE

On a *real* note, how do you guys check for vacuum leaks? I've read the carb cleaner method can start a fire? Not so interested in that method.

 

[JayRolla]

lol, Scotty Kilmer is a joke compared to EricTheCarGuy, but I found this and didn't expect in a million years he'd be working on a 3rd gen, what are the odds.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMok2y05jNE

On a *real* note, how do you guys check for vacuum leaks? I've read the carb cleaner method can start a fire? Not so interested in that method.

I use propane.

 

[3bears]

starter fluid or choke cleaner, when the vacuum leak sucks it in , the engine will let you know

 

[wcjeep]

Propane works if it's handy. I've used WD 40. Same concept as Propane. Wait for engine sound to change. I also have a hand pump. The hand pump is handy for a low noise environment.

 

[amalik]

starter fluid or choke cleaner, when the vacuum leak sucks it in , the engine will let you know

is it dangerous? etcg mentions flames etc

 

[3bears]

is it dangerous? etcg mentions flames etc

can be, not the best way to check, but does work when you have nothing else available,

 

[Kyngfish]

Cigar method

Silly as it sounds, this actually works, just worth noting that sometimes it takes quite a lot of time to get the amount of smoke in there where something shows up. You also need to pay attention because leaks can be very small.

I've done it with my 911. Haven't needed to try it with my 3rd Gen yet.

 

[amalik]

can be, not the best way to check, but does work when you have nothing else available,

Well, what's better? My hoses are 21 years old now, I'd like to find out if I have leaks. I also have pretty shitty idle and I've cleaned MAF/plugs+wires are current/cleaned IAC//new PCV/ all that good stuff.

 

[wcjeep]

At 21yrs of age dryrot is a real possibility. Full Replacement is not a bad idea. If that's too much consider buying small zip ties. Zip tie every vacuum connection. You may be fighting multiple small problems. Small zip ties have less gap when snug.

Also check for hose leaks with your preferred method. I would avoid carb cleaner or starting fluid. Some chemicals have a negative reaction to paint. Do have a fire extinguisher handy while spraying any chemical.