How to find VACUUM LEAKS

I describe and demonstrate three different ways to find vacuum leaks on your vehicles engine. The water method, carb and choke cleaner method, and propane method are all explored
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We hope you enjoyed this video and will keep in mind that all information included is intended to be purely academic and in fact is only the opinion of D&E. We are not professionals, nor are we qualified to knight you a professional. D&E want to ensure that anyone modify or fixing their own vehicle does so in a safe manner which leaves the vehicle in a legal, roadworthy state. In short, DON'T BE A MONKEY WITH A TOOL BOX! If you don't know what you are doing, leave it the professionals!

[@karmicmessenger]

Speaking as someone who has been using flammable materials to find vacuum leaks for over 40 years I have seen my share of flash fires.I always thought it a necessary evil but it is not the safest way, I recently found out. The safest way is to generate and inject smoke into the intake under mild pressure and see where it comes out(with the engine off). Just last night I saw a guy confirming bent valves with the same method by setting the cam lobes to fully closed and injecting smoke into the spark plug hole.Genius! You learn something new every day.

[@johnrackiewicz286]

I have been doing research on finding vacuum leaks. Positive smoke pressure seems by far the most effective and SAFEST way to do it.

[@rodkennedy9800]

Think you may need an expensive ‘purpose built’ machine for the method you’re referring to. The method highlighted here uses ‘everyday’ tools/equipment found in most do it yourself people’s toolbox/shed.

[@3500camarz]

The smoke test method is also the safest as you don't have to worry about a running engine!

[@tinkerscorner54]

Finally. Someone who knows what breaks the rubber down when using flammable liquids. I haven't seen anyone else mention that.

[@s.j.5850]

Not only excellent tips to find a vacuum leak, but excellent explanations of the pros & cons of each method, as well as safety precautions!

[@jamesearly729]

Extremely informative with much wisdom involved. The quality of instruction I would want for any mechanical staff with caution I would also want in a compliance inspector. You are the man.

[@michaeleisenbise4278]

Absolutely a fantastic video. Loved the safety tips. A lot of good stuff here. Am 69 years old. Have been working on cars for a long time. Feel this video taught me a lot. Thanks for the great video. Loved it.

[@grominwithrob1339]

I was a small engine mechanic for years and always used starter fluid because of the small amount of oil present in my mind made me think it was less likely to over dry. I really like the propane idea.

[@TimmayFilms]

I'm glad I found this vid. I was thinking about using my old propane rig, which is already set up with a hose, so I came in and checked KZbin. Here you are, thanks!

[@matthewk6731]

I'm 62 and have never heard of this before today where I have seen it twice.

[@garyhedger1503]

Good video. Yes, the soapy water method is good for finding positive pressure leaks such as pin holes in tires and wheels, not vacuum leaks

[@donaldpauli129]

Done this for years. Very reliable

[@michaelh7527]

Love your idea! Give you another idea. You can do this on a cold engine not running. Get a fog machine. Attach a PVC pipe and hose to the machine. Connect it to the brake booster vacuum line and you will see the smoke coming out. A friend of mine was struggling to find a vacuum leak. He had been working on it for a few hours. We used this method and found it within a minute.

[@donoimdono2702]

if you don't have a fog machine, use some 2-stroke fuel in your 4 stroke lawn mower and attach a hose to it's exhaust. that also works for killing gophers and other burrowing rodents in your field.

[@waynemiller9574]

Thanks never tried the propane method and have a car with that exact problem .

[@jojozepofthejungle2655]

As a precaution with rubber hoses and fittings is use a 1/4 spray bottle of gasket leak sealer mixed with 50% mixed coolant and 50% distilled water. This stuff keeps all your rubber stuff as new and restores old rubber. I even spray it on exposed gasket around the head and underneath the car and around tyre rims and air valves even my wetsuit. A $50 bottle lasts forever and saves a lot of heartache.

[@joefoster8288]

I don't quit understand the proposition of each ingredient of gasket sealer to a 50/ 50 mix of Distilled Water and Anti freeze. 🤔

[@lauriek6969]

Your video is very clear and easy to understand. Excellent job! Love the tree tattoo on your forearm.

[@UnknowPresence]

Damn excellent idea, I never thought of using propane gas, it makes allot sense.

[@joelrickards2315]

Thanx sir I especially like the safety reminders great job my good man!

[@fordfan7829]

I have seen Mechanics make a mess with spraying brake clean to find vacuum leaks. I use propane too and its the best. Nice Vid.

[@kyuseung813]

Thank you for sharing a safe way to detect a vacuum leak using the propane tank.

[@joehyundaitech7961]

grate video I learned a lot and you brought up a lot of good points like for IE spraying starter fluid on rubber hoses that are not leaking but may from it drying out the hoses. so glad i found your video

[@blk77sunshn]

I must say this method has to be one of the best I've seen (I've used the other two and gages) I'm going to try this next time round, thanks indeed!

[@DEInTheGarage]

I think you will like it. It is easy, cheap, and effective

[@michaelbarber1906]

Hey brother, thank you for the info, I have always used carbeurater cleaner, never thought about a fire. may sound stupid but the problem could have been an electrical and would have burnt like hell, LOL

[@brianklos8280]

Extremely well done!

[@1usArmySniper]

I was a carb cleaner user for years, though scared I was going to catch fire and burn to the ground myself. You've convinced me to switched to the propane method bud! Great video. Clear and concise with no BS added. Thank you!

[@gweedomurray9923]

He is good ! I just wish we could have gotten a live demo of the engine changing speed when you hit the leak, even if he had to pull a line on purpose just to illustrate the effect.

[@3500camarz]

Propane method is good, but I prefer the smoke test method. Easy to find leaks and you don't have to have the car running.

[@datawrangler81]

Couple stories of bad burns with starter fluid carb cleaner in other threads, better to use propane, or try scotty kilmers cigar method

[@davidchicas9565]

Good method I'll put in practice.the propene .thanks.

[@susanneortiz9657]

My father told me he was going to propane to find the vacuum leak on my car and I got quite nervous. Thanks to your video, I can now breathe again.

[@adamfreeman1347]

Good video 👍. If you are keeping your car and your hoses are old and cracked. Start replacing Vacuum hoses they are inexpensive sold by the foot. It will save you time and give peace of mind.

[@johnmcminn9455]

Great video very clear to what works. Fire extinguisher. Yes, that is the next thing i must buy . Cars don't run well when they catch fire!

[@nathanmatthews8172]

That beard is a masterpiece. A national treasure.

[@vernroach3413]

Excellent video, from smart, common sense instruction....I have learned something...My thanks to the gent that made it.

[@DEInTheGarage]

Thanks for the feedback! Glad you found the video helpful

[@gooburrum]

Very clear instruction. Thanks.

[@Hyediver]

Appreciated safety tips with fire extinguisher and safety glasses.

[@jablescobra2573]

Great vid. Keep them coming!

[@sneakthief5724]

This is a solid video. Great info! I never liked the Ether method...

[@juliosantos9289]

I'm having a idle issue and am going to do this before going to the fuel. Thanks bother. Good info!

[@DEInTheGarage]

Good luck!

[@-autodiagnosticexperts7734]

fantastic and helpful info thank you very much

[@nathanwhitecotton6350]

I like the idea it's easy it's cheap and does work 👍 I have personally used on my Tahoe and seen it's done....... Keep it up

[@rickynewton7555]

great video and great tip and makes alot of sense.

[@NickyNoyes]

Thank you for your time. I know how to do this But my son who was 16 @ the time. Your video was educational and hit all the marks. Thx again🤙🙏 -San Tan Valley, AZ.-

[@Clovistoolsdotcom]

Good advice my favorite way is the propane

[@brennanm1858]

Thank you man. Super helpful

[@elysvillasmil9647]

Exellent description . Thanks for your help

[@alfredozertuche784]

learned something new. Thanks Ive always used brake fluid, carb cleaner, starting fluid but always afraid to have an arc ignite the puddles that gather at times. I've used it to test fuel pumps as well. I learned to not stomp the gas pedal while injecting starting fluid cause its prone to backfire with a flame. I'm curious if this method would be any different when trying to test for a bad fuel pump. Curious if you tried it and if you pressed the gas pedal while doing it. I'm more then sure it would be the same but with a more explosive reaction due to it being a vapor then a liquid fuel.

[@unkyjoe]

Good presentation in my opinion and including safety awareness is noted. Thx

[@cr112784]

9:51. Dope deciduous tree silhouette! I’ve been drawing and photographing a couple thousand deciduous tree silhouettes. Ive got a close up looking thru the branches in the foreground w/an abstract nature-scape in the background. They’re nature’s perfect stamp.

[@DEInTheGarage]

That sounds pretty awesome. I am definitely a fan of the natural beauty of trees

[@joseirizarry8256]

Thanks, excellent video and explanation, blessings to you and family.

[@ThereIsNoGodOnlyUs]

For the most commone torch nozzles, be they brass or steel, the sizes for the hoses tend to be either 1/2" inner diameter for the brass tips and 3/8" for the benzomatic tips.

[@badmotherhumper]

your beard tells me your propane method is safe!

[@tacoman864]

Am i the only one that found this funny as hell?

[@badmotherhumper]

@@tacoman864 Thanks duder, I try. Turned out my issue was the MAF sensor wiring harness had issues 200 bucks at the shop.

[@tacoman864]

@@badmotherhumper ah cool my map went out on my 88 f350 she ran like shit finally figuared it out though 300 bucks later lol

[@sickandtiredofcomplaining6574]

You should hear what his penis had to say! It’s real mouthful 🥴

[@Zoofactory]

@@tacoman864 I can't even focus on what he is saying... The beard is... Frankly, it's just too damn hypnotic. Someone snap their fingers for me please.... ( Funny stuff Taco Man! I'm in tears.. ;)

[@JAM-zb2vh]

hello brother Just want to say that I love the beard And I like The idea of using propane. Keep the videos coming god bless you

[@DEInTheGarage]

Thanks buddy!

[@robertkeenbuildingmylifesh3429]

Love watching the incredible motivation man thanks

[@kalinradoulov3760]

Keep simple and safe, i like the vaporizer method.

[@MisterDeets]

Tried Mapp Gas (it was what I had handy at the time) and put it right on where I later identified the leak coming from audibly using a section of pipe to isolate the source and it just didn't seem to react with increased revs in a struggling engine. The leak is huge and you can hear it hissing bigtime. If you can hear the vacuum leak hissing, you can isolate it with a section of pipe put up to your ear. You could probably do the same with a section of hose as well.

[@tylerschleicher7421]

Great trick! And to the POINT!😎

[@josephhutzler9667]

Very direct and educated!

[@edwallenborn5049]

Excellent info, thanks!

[@justeatn]

Love the beard bro! Well said and explained.

[@MrGeoffreyhines]

Fuckin brilliant. Most logical, effective, quickest, and safest method I’ve seen. Thanks brother!

[@DEInTheGarage]

We certainly thought so, haha. Thanks for the feedback!

[@SzymekCRX]

Great teaching skills :) Have a good day!

[@DEInTheGarage]

Thank you. You too

[@johnfranklin685]

This an excellent, consciousness video; however if you have an older vehicle and are not equipped with a propane torch, I would suggest buying all new vacuum hoses. All hoses are subject to decomposition, and by replacing them you will be rest assured that the problem will not arise in the near future, and you've saved having to by a propane torch you may not frequently have a use for.

[@sietafak]

Dude...THANK YOU!!

[@wpeastman]

Great info thank you

[@vr6prodigy]

I used my vape while the engine was off and cold. I simply vaped into my brake booster line and watched where it came from. Found my leak without flammable materials. Great video tho

[@stephenhunter6507]

Did the same with a cheap cigar

[@metalhalide4043]

@stangmaster 2 Agree, much faster and safer method..

[@gristlevonraben]

Sometimes the purge valve is open, techs use a machine to close it. You could temperarily tape the two shut, purge and check valve. Also, remember to take the tape off when done. Sometimes the valves themselves are bad. Good luck and don't hurt your lungs, if you do, take high quality co-q10

[@metalhalide4043]

@@gristlevonraben Purge valve is normally closed, vent valve on charcoal canister is normally open..

[@gristlevonraben]

@@metalhalide4043 my bad, sorry.

[@robertgerver5455]

Excellent vid , masterful dissertation.

[@m2003h]

Never thought of that that's pretty damn smart

[@leonthagreat1347]

9

[@jesseanderson1500]

Jesse Anderson Thank you, great lesson

[@dennisolsson3119]

As far as I have understood, your 1 should be either: 1) pressurize the system from shop air (regulated of course) and use soapy water, or 2) pur loads of clean water into the engine compartment (nor spray bottle, pour directly from bottle)... The first will bubble on your leaks and works with a shut off engine, the second works at any temperature. As for water in the engine compartment, ask yourself what happens when driving after someone else in the rain. :) Besides these points I only agree with your points for 2 and 3. Thank you for your video!

[@riverking4u]

Straight forward Thank you.

[@DEInTheGarage]

Thanks for the feedback. Glad you enjoyed it.

[@dm7097]

Dude you got me with this one video! I subbed right away! Awesome presentation.

[@DEInTheGarage]

Welcome to the channel! Glad to have you!

[@Zspeed]

Thanks for sharing!!!!

[@bradi5050]

Great video definitely better off with propane I've had great success with it over the years a lot safer but always be prepared for the worst lol.

[@biggrantlewis]

Thanks for the great video

[@testuser3167]

A home-made smoke machine (including a flow meter & a a small battery powered aquarium pump) can be made on the cheap to provide low positive pressure for visually finding vacuum leaks and if one uses glycerol instead of mineral/baby oil, it becomes both safe, easy to use, and non-toxic to breath the smoke, plus with or without smoke, one can then more effectively use the soapy spray method. As a bonus, you won't need a fire extinguisher with that setup.

[@chadrogers4635]

The best and safest way is the smoke method. You connect a smoke machine (can be rented from most auto parts stores) to the engine through the intake by the air filter. And it's all done while the engine is off. The smoke will come out where the leak or leaks are. No worries about a fire or damage to any components on or in the engine. Plus this is the method auto technicians use. And it is more precise.

[@TheMstwntdLMSV123]

This is the best vacuum leak guide on KZbin 👌🏻. Just a quick note- vacuum leaks could also come internally from inside the brake booster, EGR valve, or PCV valve, and you can check these by clamping on the hoses that lead to them.

[@DEInTheGarage]

That is a very good point. Thanks for the add

[@pingpong9656]

I really like the idea of only doing small bursts of propane - that makes it so much safer, as it dissipates quickly. Golden Tip, if you don't have a smoke machine.

[@jeremiahlubke7583]

It's better to do this outside. Propane is a heavy gas, heavier than air, and can collect in the floor drain/pit of your garage creating an explosion hazzard. I do HVAC/R and we had to have training on flammable refrigerants like R290 (propane). With that said, i agree this is the best method, great video!

[@DEInTheGarage]

Good extra info! Thanks!

[@petrokansis]

I mentioned that because all these people were just told the opposite dispertion of a super explosive gas that will actually travel right down the sewer and ya have fun.But hope people listen to this because it does work but be really careful.message is backwards

[@kellismith4329]

Definitely can be dangerous if you let it collect anywhere, it also consumes alot of oxygen when it burns so lots of ventilation required

[@theGADGETSplaylist]

Older vehicles maybe, but I've found watching for RPM increases with the introduction of propane doesn't work very well with today's Idle Air Control (IAC) which quickly steps in to maintain steady RPM. Perhaps watching for changes in fuel trims on a scanner as propane is introduced but I haven't had much success with that either. But that's just me. I opt for smoke test.

[@213BRANDONP]

I agree with smoke test however this method does work in the event your able to get propane in the correct place but that's more trouble than it's worth if you have a cooling fan blowing the gas everywhere smoke is by far the best method only supplemented with pressure leak down tests at the purge

[@michaelbarber1906]

Hey brother, thank you for the info, I have always used carbeurater cleaner, never thought about a fire. may sound stupid but the problem could have been an electrical and would have burnt like hell, LOL

[@DEInTheGarage]

Yep, I was the same way until an old head mechanic showed me this method. I will never go back now

[@mayeri3083]

Wow pretty slick not bad. Good tip there. click on this video originally thought you were going to help me with my vacuum leak for my AC, whenever I accelerate over 30 miles per hour I lose suction or vacuum in my AC,as soon as I release my accelerator pedal the AC blows nice and cold. Just not sure where to start from while seems there some type of vacuum or something that's pulling whenever I accelerate. Do you by any chance have any videos about this or any thought what this can be?

[@livingroompickersclub6358]

Great tip,thanks!

[@bobbrand8611]

Great knowledgeable video

[@colinspencer2125]

Well Done! Great description.

[@sierraadams8009]

So cool I accidentally found this tip. Thank you!

[@chiefkicabich7312]

I Sprayed willy nilly once. BAM!!! cracked my rubber!!! Diggin the beard bro.

[@bentnickel7487]

I went to school with William Nilly and he wasn't as crazy as his sister Silly.

[@codybrookehanson2346]

I was expecting the first one to be the smoke test. I have always used that test but will try the propane method next.

[@azimmey]

Awesome beard. Thanks for the video.

[@dbknockout2266]

Hey bro thank you for this. Question...I am not familiar with propane and this may sound stupid but can I use one of those cans of propane. You know the one that looks like a can of spray paint size

[@joshuaatkins5197]

Not all brake cleaners are good for Plastics and rubbers so keep that in mind. But carb and choke cleaner is safe to go onto plastic and rubber. Edit.. never mind you covered it, awesome!

[@bertblue9683]

Didn't see someone mentioned it in the top 20 or so comments but Propane is heavier than air so this could help putting it where you want in those hard to reach areas.

[@DEInTheGarage]

Very interesting.. that had not occurred to me previously. Thanks!

[@quarterlore6272]

Extremely helpful

[@aaronlucas5366]

Excellent video

[@mustangmadness2619]

Check and see, but I think Map gas is acetylene gas, burns hotter for silver solder. I used the spray carb cleaner too, I have used soapy water & compressed air on finding AC leaks too. next time ill try propane ,Good video !

[@camashmak]

Good info, and great beard! Thanks

[@DEInTheGarage]

*tips hat* well thank ya kindly

[@mattedwards4533]

I use only propane ,contrary to what some have said it is the safest way. Propane may flash over if it does ignite but it is brief and easy to control. I also use spray lacquer to seal some leaks. Lacquer drys almost instantly and will give a permanant seal to leaks in places like a warped throttle body and Lacquer doesn't damage rubber.It sure beats spending over a half a day taking off all the mess on top of todays engines to fix the leak?

[@loudawg907]

Great video thanks man

[@victoryfirst2878]

I have found that using a carbon dioxide fire extinguisher is the ticket. You do not have to worry about cleaning up some yellow flour which is impossible to totally clean up. Where the gas just does things right. Good day and nice video with different points to consider too. VF

[@FMSTheWord]

when I first saw the propane, I thought you would feed it into the system like smoke and check for the odor, lol, your way is much better!

[@thejckstr]

nice vid! Thanks for teaching me something I didn't know

[@masterandpet903]

lol shit. all i needed to do was see a screenshot of a propane torch with a hose on it and i was sold. no need to watch the video. DONE. got it. understood. brilliant.

[@scottlarson541]

Succinct and to the point. Thank you

[@ceciltrane5418]

I agree with the reasoning. Propane has and ignition temp of 900° to 1100° that's about 200° hotter than any thing in the engine bay other than a stray spark. On a hand held propane torch, you have a valve to cut the fuel supply to an accidental fire. Or you can remember since you are holding the torch in your hand already, just remove it from the vehicle. Flammable liquids ignite at common engine temperatures, and you can not control or remove the burning fluid if it ignites.