DIY - Finding a vacuum leak (Cigar/Pump method)

[BigTuna]

All,

I thought that this might be a helpful DIY for finding a vacuum leak. I had one on my old Impreza and was able to find it using some simple things.

Tools Needed:
Fluid transfer pump (Harbor freight)
PVC Pipe cap that fits inside the intake pipe
A barb fitting that will fit the transfer pump hose
Epoxy
Cigar
Duct tape
Small hose clamp

1. Drill a hole in the center of the pipe cap. Insert the barb fitting in, with the barbs facing out. Secure the fitting in the cap with epoxy making sure it will be air tight. Let dry.

2. Take off the intake hose and insert the pipe cap. tighten the intake hose around the pipe cap.

3. Stick the exit hose of the transfer pump on the barbed fitting, use small hose clamp if necessary.

4. Tape the cigar to the inlet of the transfer pump.

5. Turn the ignition "ON" and place something on the gas pedal to open the throttle body.

6. Light the cigar and begin to pump. The air being sucked through the cigar will fill the pump with smoke, then push the smoke into the intake system. If there are any leaks, the smoke find it's way out and you should be able to see where it is coming from.

Video for how it works.