Smoke Leak Detector 12V Automotive Smoker

This automotive smoke leak detector is designed for fast and accurate detection of leaks in vehicle systems. By generating visible smoke, it allows mechanics to quickly locate even minor leaks, reducing unnecessary part replacement and significantly shortening diagnostic time.

Versatile Diagnostic Applications

Suitable for identifying leaks across multiple vehicle systems:

• Intake system
• Exhaust and EGR system
• Crankcase and charge air system
• Fuel system, tank, and charcoal canister
• AdBlue® (AUS 32) and additive systems
• Vacuum control systems and connections
• Air conditioning system (low-pressure side, empty)
• Cooling system
• Washer system
• Body and window sealing (water ingress & wind noise detection)

Adjustable Operation & Mobile Use

The unit operates directly from a 12V vehicle battery, making it fully portable and ideal for workshop or mobile diagnostics.

• Adjustable smoke output
• Adjustable pressure settings
• Quick setup and operation
• Flexible usage without external air supply

Durable Construction & Safety Features

Built for workshop environments, the device features a robust powder-coated steel housing for durability and longevity.

• Integrated safety shut-off for heating element
• Stable and reliable operation
• Designed for repeated professional use

Technical Specifications

• Power supply: 12V vehicle battery
• Rated voltage: 12V DC
• Power: 100 W
• Smoke output: 15–20 L/min
• Pressure: adjustable
• Dimensions: 280 × 180 × 185 mm
• Weight: 3.8 kg

Scope of Delivery

• 1 x Smoke generator
• 1 x Refill bottle 250 ml
• 1 x Refill bottle 15 ml
• 1 x Vent adapter
• 1 x Large cone plug
• 1 x Medium cone plug
• 1 x Small cone plug
• 1 x Smoke outlet hose
• 1 x Power supply cable
• 1 x Hand vacuum pump
• 1 x Crankcase adapter
• 1 x Valve tool
• 1 x Connection hose
• 1 x Hose clamp
• 24 x Sealing plugs

Important Notice

• Requires baby oil or mineral oil (not included) for operation

Safety Information

• Electrical device – use only by trained personnel
• Use appropriate protective equipment
• Follow manufacturer instructions for safe operation

Control Elements – Function

• Operating mode selector – Select between quick test and smoke detection
• Mode indicator “Quick Test” – For fast leak detection without smoke
• Mode indicator “Smoke Detection” – For locating exact leak positions
• Power switch – Press once to turn on, press again to turn off
• Operation indicator – Lights up when the device is in operation
• Smoke indicator
• Flow regulator – Adjust to evaluate the severity of the leak
• Flow indicator – Displays the current air/smoke flow
• Pressure gauge – Displays operating pressure during testing
• Filling port – For filling/refilling smoke fluid
  • Initial fill: 20–30 ml smoke fluid
  • Refill: max. 20 ml smoke fluid
• 12V socket – For connection of the power cable
• Smoke outlet – For connection of the smoke hose
• Fluid level window – For checking the fluid level inside the device
• Drain plug – For draining residual fluid

Operation

1. Place the device on a level surface. Close the valve of the hand vacuum pump by turning it clockwise and connect its hose to the pipe to be tested. Operate the rubber bulb to check the pipe and ensure there are no leaks.
2. Connect the smoke hose to the smoke outlet on the device and connect the other end to the system to be tested. Ensure all connections are leak-free.
3. Connect the device to a 12V vehicle battery: red clamp to positive (+), black clamp to negative (–). If connected correctly, the operation indicator will light up.
   Warning: Do not reverse polarity.
4. Select the operating mode. By default, “Quick Test” is active. If a leak is already suspected, select “Smoke Detection” directly.
5. Switch on the device using the power switch. Adjust the air/smoke flow using the flow regulator according to the system’s pressure tolerance.
6. In Quick Test mode, after approximately 2 minutes, the float in the flow indicator will gradually drop to “0”, indicating no leak. If the float does not drop, a leak is present. The time required depends on the size of the system.
7. In Smoke Detection mode, after approximately 2 minutes, the system will be filled with smoke (longer for larger systems).
8. Observe the float in the flow indicator:
   • Float at bottom → no leak
   • Float rising or fluctuating → leak present
   • Higher float position → larger leak
9. During leak detection, use a lamp if necessary. The point where smoke becomes visible indicates the leak location.
10. After completing the test, properly store all cables and hoses.

Important Notes

• Avoid testing components that are sensitive to smoke. When testing EVAP systems, monitor pressure in real time and adjust the flow regulator accordingly.
• Each test should not exceed 20 minutes. Allow 15 minutes between tests. The device has overload protection and will shut off automatically if limits are exceeded. Allow it to cool before reuse.
• Do not connect the power cables incorrectly. Reverse polarity activates protection and prevents operation. Repeated incorrect connection may damage the device or reduce its service life.

Daily Maintenance and Consumables

• Smoke fluid degrades under high temperatures, which affects the lifespan of the smoke generation element. Replace it regularly.
• If the device has not been used for more than one week and requires refilling, first drain any remaining fluid via the drain plug.
• Replace the smoke fluid if water droplets are observed at the smoke outlet.
• It is recommended to use dedicated smoke fluid. Once opened, the fluid should be used within one year or disposed of. Use the supplied plastic bottle for refilling.