Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor introduces Chuck Kincaid from Redline Detection, a frequent guest on the show, to discuss diagnostic techniques, particularly the use of smoke machines.
Key topics covered:
Importance of Diagnostics – The show highlights how vehicles today require advanced diagnostics, from simple issues like leaky tires to complex problems in electric vehicles.
Using Smoke Machines for Leak Detection – Chuck explains how different types of smoke machines help diagnose various vehicle issues, including lean fuel conditions, evaporative emissions system leaks, and intake gasket failures.
Pressure Variations in Smoke Machines – Not all smoke machines function the same. Higher pressure smoke machines (up to 10-15 psi) are necessary for certain tests, such as detecting intake and exhaust leaks, while lower pressure machines work for EVAP systems.
Turbocharged Vehicles and Smoke Testing – The conversation covers how turbocharged engines require higher-pressure smoke testing due to their boosted intake systems, which a standard EVAP smoke machine cannot properly diagnose.
Applications Beyond Engines – Smoke technology is also used to detect water leaks in vehicle cabins, HVAC issues, and even cooling system leaks if the coolant is drained beforehand.
Exploring New Applications – The show briefly touches on whether smoke or pressure testing could be applied to air conditioning systems, though there isn’t a definitive answer yet.