How To Find A Vacuum Leak - EricTheCarGuy

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  • čas přidán 22. 08. 2010
  • Vacuum leaks are one of the biggest causes of engine performance problems. This video is pretty straight forward in it's approach to finding a vacuum leak. On thing I might mention is that not all vacuum leaks are at the engine. Some HVAC systems run on engine vacuum and can cause a leak under the dash in some cases. I've even seen vacuum operated door locks. Just be sure to be careful spraying flammable stuff on a hot engine, you don't want to take one problem and make it a whole lot worse. You can also use a spray bottle with water to do this same test. It may not be as effective, but you don't have to worry about spraying a flammable substance on a hot engine.
    For more information on diagnosing engine performance issues, check out this article I wrote.
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    ETCG
    Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. EricTheCarGuy assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. EricTheCarGuy recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not EricTheCarGuy.
  • Auta a dopravní prostředky

Komentáře • 2K

  • @88KeysIdaho
    @88KeysIdaho Před 3 lety +181

    This is the first video about finding a vacuum, where THEY ACTUALLY FOUND A VACUUM LEAK! Very helpful to hear the engine difference, not just hear to squirt stuff all over, with no effect on the car's idle. Thanks !!

  • @T1GEVERETT
    @T1GEVERETT Před 2 lety +52

    11 years later and this video is still helping people. I have a vacuum leak in my car that I cant find by ear so this helps tremendously

    • @daddyosink4413
      @daddyosink4413 Před rokem +1

      Right? I've been chasing an issue in my 96 silverado for weeks now, needed to come back and figure out what I was not doing.

  • @shotguncamaro1214
    @shotguncamaro1214 Před 2 lety +207

    Eric, being a car guy and drag racer for over 50 years. One of the safer ways is to use a spray bottle with water. Instead of the engine speeding up when you find a leak, it will slow down, (and NOT catch on fire if it backfires) which they can do.

    • @matexf4c
      @matexf4c Před 2 lety +9

      Exactly what I was thinking of doing glad I saw this!!!!

    • @mikeypotts4732
      @mikeypotts4732 Před 2 lety +4

      Thanks for sharing!

    • @richardrussell4065
      @richardrussell4065 Před 2 lety +3

      Will be trying this

    • @richardw6592
      @richardw6592 Před 2 lety +33

      To his credit, he abundantly overstated the potential for fire 🔥

    • @mikekmalick
      @mikekmalick Před 2 lety +15

      I would rather listen to a guy who has Drag raced for 50+ years and says to use something that is safe! Water what a concept! Duh.

  • @timerickson2141
    @timerickson2141 Před 6 lety +629

    Back in the day I was a fleet mechanic for a large logging COMPANY. Students from a well known trade school 6,week prior to completing the program they would spend a week in a actual shop with mechanics. I would get like 6 at a time. Anyway I was checking for a vacuum leak in a crew bus (Dodge van) I use water in a spray bottle. Spray the area you can see the water get sucked in at the leak the engine idle will also stumble when the leak is found . The students asked me why I didn't use carb cleaner . I explained the thing about fire but also as a kid my cousin was a firefighter told a story about a mechanic checking for a vacuum leak where somehow the can of carb cleaner exploded in the mechanics hand. He lost fingers from his burns. Their teacher taught them to use carb cleaner. Anyhow a couple years later one of those students came to visit me. He wore those gloves that burn Victims wear and a hood over his face. He told me when the can exploded in his hands he thought of our talk. I to used carb cleaner rarely. In the field if water wasn't available. But not since then. WATER IN A SPRAY BOTTLE. DOESN'T EXPLODE IT DOESN'T CAUSE FIRES ITS CHEAP AND SAFE

    • @JaHm3sZ
      @JaHm3sZ Před 5 lety +81

      I have a Subaru. Can I use my vape? Serious question. Lolol

    • @genesssisss
      @genesssisss Před 5 lety +13

      Lol I use febreze

    • @johnf.hebert1409
      @johnf.hebert1409 Před 5 lety +13

      what about soapy water?

    • @TheSatan222
      @TheSatan222 Před 5 lety +36

      Water into an engine... doesnt sound smart

    • @deeeznutz27
      @deeeznutz27 Před 5 lety +4

      @@TheSatan222 truth

  • @stephenhudson7488
    @stephenhudson7488 Před 5 lety +36

    I just saw your post on 11/17/2018. Here is an OLD SCHOOL check for you. I saw many variations before computers were used in cars. We would put a piece of cardboard over the fan (they were all belt and pulley then) to limit the fan blowing air back on the engine. Then we would take a couple of long straws and tape them together. Then we would light a cigar (smart people did this away form flammable liquids and washed their hands first to get chemicals off). We would hold a puff from the cigar, and using a flashlight, we would blow a little smoke around gently and look to see if it got sucked in somewhere. I actually saw a rig that used a smoker from bee keeping used that way . It had a little hose coming off of it and the guy had a piece of coat hanger wire taped to the hose. You need to know we had vacuum manifolds in those days, engine vacuum advanced the distributor timing for the engine, and where there are wiring harnesses and sensors today, we had vacuum lines run every damned place. In the 70's and 80's we had both, and was that ever a pain. Some of the hoses looked like wires and were made of brittle plastic. Some of the wires looked like hoses, and sometimes the wires and the hoses were run together as a bundle under wire wraps or friction tape. Yes, I have a therapist.

    • @private1712
      @private1712 Před 2 lety +5

      So basically block the fan use a vape to avoid risk of spark and flames and blow a cloud

    • @Crt5
      @Crt5 Před 4 měsíci

      @@private1712great idea

    • @user-lr2py1gq8z
      @user-lr2py1gq8z Před 2 měsíci

      Nice detailed explanation. I can totally get a visual of what you are explaining. Thanks for the tips old timer!!

  • @plantbasedprepper
    @plantbasedprepper Před 7 lety +549

    All my wife heard was I get lots of questions about performance issues LOL We got a good laugh because she had no idea what I was watching! ha ha ha

    • @oiyabastard7275
      @oiyabastard7275 Před 6 lety +21

      Raw Roy. shows where her heads at

    • @_DixonCider
      @_DixonCider Před 6 lety +10

      My wife walked in from the other room to comment on his "performance issues." What a pervert.

    • @motionless8513
      @motionless8513 Před 6 lety +1

      😂😂

    • @siphilipe
      @siphilipe Před 6 lety +10

      It's so simple for them. Wife or any female, she hands keys to a mechanic guy, straight to waiting room (of course iphone handy), when a job done, swipes a card and just leaves. By the way, most of them don't know how to open a hood.

    • @swadeozzy6430
      @swadeozzy6430 Před 6 lety +17

      That's why I don't do house work.
      She works in the house and I work on the house.
      She drives the car to the store and I work on it.
      She's never taken interest or the initiative to study how to fix things and I've never done the same with house work.
      I'm keeping my balls in my court.

  • @richard1835
    @richard1835 Před rokem +2

    I was working on a Silverado about 3 years ago and I sprayed some brake cleaner to the rear of the intake manifold while the engine was running and accidentaly hit the exhaust system and poff it caught and I scrambled for the fire extinguisher. It was out in second and I had to repair part of the wiring harness. That was it. So if you think you know it all and nothing bad can happen to you while working on a vehicle you are mistaken. In every situation working on any vehicle we must use caution. Thank you Eric for the vaccuum leak video which is part of my engine diagnostics CZcams folder. I only save the best of the best videos and this one is one of my favorites. Thank you.

    • @tanchelm
      @tanchelm Před 9 dny +1

      Bad things can always happen when working on vehicle... My story is when I've replaced the brake rotors and pads, all nice and good, been satisfied of the job I've done, guess what? The last caliper guide pin bolt thread was stripped... Only today I've fixed after I ordered from ebay x2 brand new pins... Shit happens.

  • @bogartin4561ify
    @bogartin4561ify Před 9 lety +107

    This guy needs more subscribers and likes... he's the best at showing first hand and he's just an awesome mechanic thumbs up to eric

  • @evanwilson9925
    @evanwilson9925 Před 2 lety +23

    This is so amazing! I've been a shade tree mechanic since I was a kid. I basically just learn everything as I go. In fact, I'd even so far as estimate the 30-% +/- of the money I spend on every project is on oopsies and lesson learn. But for vacuum leaks I've always had to pay someone to smoke test it for me. Using your method I just found it in 5 minutes!

  • @ericthecarguy
    @ericthecarguy  Před 12 lety +21

    @tec68421 Interesting I've never heard of that. You can also use soapy water and pressurize the intake or use smoke to help you find leaks like this. Thanks for your comment.

    • @douglasmaclean5836
      @douglasmaclean5836 Před 9 měsíci

      Eric the madman I love it I'm battling a Volvo.... I can hardly wait for her to freak out when the whole thing goes up in flames and she gets to finally get a new non-premium burning econobox.... And I keep this awesome Volvo all to myself... You are a great American 👍🍁🥞🪓🇨🇦😎

  • @Pigeoning
    @Pigeoning Před 3 lety +18

    10 years? This was the first vid I found of Eric's.

  • @kylemc8851
    @kylemc8851 Před 9 lety +4

    I have been having trouble with my 03 GMC Sonoma at time stalling and the worst time trying to figure out why, until I finally ran across this video, thank you, and thank you again!!

  • @ericthecarguy
    @ericthecarguy  Před 12 lety +6

    @SporadicPoetry The first step with performance issues is always to check for codes first, if you don't have any check your tune up parts but as you suggest it's also a good idea to check for vacuum leaks.

  • @WeAreUnity.
    @WeAreUnity. Před 5 lety +10

    I have been watching your videos for years, thank you very much Eric for your fun, thorough, and professional videos!!

  • @karlbuglione2444
    @karlbuglione2444 Před 8 lety +38

    Hi Eric, just wanted to say thanks for all the posts. Although I have been working on my own vehicles for over 25 years, I always learn some new diagnostic approach or easier way of removing or installing a part. Thanks again for sharing your knowledge, its invaluable. Great vid and piece of info.

    • @long33444
      @long33444 Před 5 lety

      F150 intank vacuum hose hookup 4.2

  • @LewisJohnsonIII
    @LewisJohnsonIII Před rokem

    I like how he talks clear, concise, and not in a rush. Very detailed and the why of each step. Jolly good.

  • @Peteyjames
    @Peteyjames Před 3 lety +21

    Great video! Note to anyone thinking about using WD40 to detect a vacuum leak...
    DON'T DO IT, it will leave a total mess on your engine and be a pain in the butt for future repairs.

  • @akawireguy1197
    @akawireguy1197 Před 9 lety +5

    Another useful method is to take a pair of needle nose pliers and just go around and gently pinch off vacuum lines. If you hear a change in idle speed you know you just changed the fuel air ratio. I have found many vacuum leaks this way. This method works very well on older vehicles; I don't know if there would be any conflict on today's more sophisticated engines and systems.

    • @Rtb323
      @Rtb323 Před rokem

      Where do u pinch the line exactly? at the very end where the boot is ? Thanks.

  • @carlgradolph9676
    @carlgradolph9676 Před rokem

    Nice work, bro! It's rare to find a mechanic who not only understands an issue and knows how to fix (or at least detect) it, but also knows how to explain that issue, which you have done.... Looks like I need to go buy some carb cleaner (and a fire extinguisher!) for my 2000 F-150 that not only idles rough, but also emits a high-pitched whistling noise while the engine is running. Thanks much for making and posting this video, which has earned you one new subscriber.

  • @Kixtia013
    @Kixtia013 Před 2 lety +1

    It’s been more than a decade of knowledge sharing. Thanks, Eric.

  • @r.d.ontheroad-1094
    @r.d.ontheroad-1094 Před 7 lety +3

    Thanks, and great promo for the Fire Extinguisher! I almost lost my motor home the day I picked up, because I didn't have a big extinguisher with me, Rick

  • @doug960
    @doug960 Před 11 lety +4

    I'm diggin his Steve McQueen Bullit Mustang sound effect for the opening scene. Pretty distinct recording.

  • @Pjay318
    @Pjay318 Před 10 lety

    @EricTheCarGuy this entire month I've been trying to figure out my misfires; ive changed coil, sparks, even ignitor. everyone's been telling me to do a compression test and mechanics are trying to hella charge me a lot of money, this video helped me out ALOT you have no idea. Found the leak at the fuel injector at cylinder 1. THANK YOU for such detailed videos.

  • @westwon6758
    @westwon6758 Před 7 lety +1

    LOL Bobby John.
    Thanks for the videos Eric. I love the clarity of the details in them. You are doing a great job for people like me with limited knowledge (weekend mechanics). I have learned a lot. Great channel too.

  • @loganmilam4065
    @loganmilam4065 Před 4 lety +5

    10 years old and still helping people out, guess it's time to fix my old 3800 shes starting to run like garbage. Thanks for the awesome video and video's you're still making man

  • @davidle7063
    @davidle7063 Před 10 lety +9

    Thanks Eric. You always help me. I keep learning from you.

  • @SomethingEternal
    @SomethingEternal Před 2 lety +1

    Eric, I know this video is old so maybe you are no longer notified of comments. But I've recently discovered through other mechanics online an easy way to build a smoke machine for around $20 (I had to spend $50 due to PVC prices during COVID being sky high right now and a lack of other suitable containers.) But regardless, it was a very cheap and very simple investment for me to make. You may want to check those out and see if you'd be interested in trying a DIY smoke machine yourself to recommend it to your viewers or not.
    I watch a lot of mechanics online. But I initially broke the learning barrier by watching you, and to this day if I need to learn something, you're my first choice. If you don't have it, or it doesn't solve my needs, I'll look at a few others before doing a general search. But I feel this compliment is relevant in that, well, you don't have a video on a topic a lot of people probably have interest in: Are DIY smoke machines any good?
    My personal opinion: Yes. As good as something I'd spend $700 on for testing leaks in intake and exhaust. And a lot lighter and easier to lug around.

  • @markmartin1280
    @markmartin1280 Před rokem

    I took my car to a shop and they couldn't find the leak, watched your video and in less than a min I found the leak myself!!! Thanks so much... Happy Happy Happy.....

  • @joshuaodom1883
    @joshuaodom1883 Před 8 lety +340

    I brought my van into a shop once with a vacuum leak, and was told I had a blown head gasket...tip, shops are crooked, fix yourself at a 99% savings.

    • @michaelblake9110
      @michaelblake9110 Před 8 lety +11

      +Joshua Odom Damn right bro

    • @geekybench
      @geekybench Před 8 lety +58

      Honestly, I'm afraid of handing my car over to shops.

    • @SangheiliSpecOp
      @SangheiliSpecOp Před 8 lety +59

      I have 6 thousand dollars worth of mods on my Mustang and I never once took it to a shop. I spent countless hours on my car but everything was done right, I didn’t have to pay anything for labor, and I know a great deal more about every inch of my car c:

    • @WhiteSpookShow
      @WhiteSpookShow Před 7 lety +6

      i got a pro charged street fox and will not take it any where for any thing unless I plan to stay with it

    • @KeepoHdee
      @KeepoHdee Před 7 lety +15

      When I got my mustang I got lazy and didnt want to figure out a wiring problem so I took it to a shop so they would find it I didnt have to deal with it they charged me 80 bucks to just check fuses and replace a part that wasnt broken then found out the switch (brake switch) wasnt getting any power so they told me come back tomorrow we'll finish it, so Im like ok and when I bring it the next day they wanted to charge me 80 bucks AGAIN to "find the problem" they are all scammers same when I wanted my power steering fixed different shops but still idiots kept replacing shit that wasnt broken NEVER AGAIN. That same day I told them fuck you went home and fixed the brake switch in like 15 min.

  • @Neoandrew12
    @Neoandrew12 Před 9 lety +19

    You Sir are Epic!
    2 issues solved from your vids now so I have subscribed!
    Many thanks!

  • @iamburl2667
    @iamburl2667 Před 11 měsíci +2

    Eric, alot of respect to you, your style teaching and extreme knowledge I say THANK YOU SIR FOR FILMING THESE VIDEOS

  • @welz2002
    @welz2002 Před 2 lety

    Cheers Eric. Still going back to your old videos now 👍🏻

  • @stevencooper4888
    @stevencooper4888 Před 9 lety +37

    "If you don't have a fire extinguisher, it's a bad day."
    XD
    You're a genius. I'm glad I found your videos.

  • @ericthecarguy
    @ericthecarguy  Před 12 lety +9

    @Gmcsierra2500hd You might consider doing a compression or leak down test to determine if there is a mechanical issue with the engine. Make sure you pull and repair any check engine light codes first however. Lastly don't rule out a transmission issue if you find your engine is working properly.

  • @JakeThomas97
    @JakeThomas97 Před rokem

    A backup to the C02, while it might short a lot of things until it dries off, a garden hose is a fair substitute. Just make sure the fuse box and positive terminal are fairly covered.
    Great video. Appreciate that demonstration

  • @JackstandJohnny
    @JackstandJohnny Před 8 lety +2

    Very helpful. Thank you for clearly instructing us on what to look for and how to diagnose this. I'm having a serious rich condition and misfire after installing an aftermarket electronic boost control solenoid and state 2 flash on my WRX and I'm hoping that I can reset my ECU and find a change now that I've rei stalled the factory bcs and flashed to my previous stage 2 tune. This has helped a lot. Thank you again!

  • @samjohnson466
    @samjohnson466 Před 9 lety +97

    If you have a distributor be careful not to spray near it's base, they typically aren't sealed well. The carb cleaner mist will enter the cap and ignite, the cap will explode like a bomb. I exploded one on my Ford Ranger, I was wearing safety glasses and sustained no serious shrapnel injuries.

    • @nicholas8479
      @nicholas8479 Před 6 lety +4

      I noticed my distributor cap was missing a seal and had a gap, maybe 1/32 inch wide in some places, so I decided to order a new gasket before proceeding with this test. I was concerned about the very issue you described.

    • @samjohnson466
      @samjohnson466 Před 4 lety

      The vacuum advance slider was sticky. I'm not sure what the "dizzy" means. Obviously it was a mistake, no call to get all knowing about it.

    • @samjohnson466
      @samjohnson466 Před 4 lety

      @x4prilsF00Lx I wasn't following these instructions of the video, this was 30 years ago. You are a troll. Just a heads up you are what is wrong with comment section.

    • @ptoughneigh854
      @ptoughneigh854 Před 4 lety +3

      x4prilsF00Lx Why are you getting so worked up with the guy over an accident on his behalf? We learn by making mistakes, and I’m sure he learned from that mistake. You don’t need to practically call him a dumbass for doing it. don’t intentionally try to make people feel stupid, as that’s just not right.

    • @charliedee9276
      @charliedee9276 Před 3 lety +1

      @Cayde Is Clutch My dizzy has a vacuum line running to it...

  • @marvmiller1708
    @marvmiller1708 Před 3 lety +4

    Eric I hope you know how valuable you are to dyi guys like me. You are awesome!

  • @YeOldeTowneCryer
    @YeOldeTowneCryer Před 11 lety

    Great tips here Eric. One thing that I have used with a bit of success is to put one end of the hose at my ear and then go around to possible areas of leakage with the other end of hose and listen for that high pitched noise. Using the spray is a great way to pin down the actual area as the sound can echo off other components.
    In future I will use the propane and get hose big enough to slip over the nozzle then neck it down to something smaller and more flexible. Great video, thanks.

  • @DoctorD9111
    @DoctorD9111 Před rokem +1

    Nice! Glad to see someone that isn't afraid of taking a little risk to solve a problem. We used to use WD40, however I'm not sure it's still flammable.
    Keep up the good work Eric, and thanks for sharing.

  • @ericthecarguy
    @ericthecarguy  Před 12 lety +14

    @KABOOOOOOM1 Well first only spray a little at a time in the suspected area, don't soak an area down. They actually make a spray to help find leaks that's nonflammable, I think STP makes it, if you were planning on soaking something down that's the way I would go but honestly you don't need much to help you find a leak.

  • @dablifenowife4223
    @dablifenowife4223 Před 7 lety +43

    thank you bro, I was about to dump my cj7 motor cuz I thought it was shit, but nope just 4 vacume leaks,

  • @andrewmurabito5013
    @andrewmurabito5013 Před 7 lety

    My bro, I think you have saved me a lot of money and enabled me to learn a highly useful skil all the while. Hope to buy you a beer someday and say thank you.

  • @rong6299
    @rong6299 Před 6 lety +1

    Eric the Car Guy is really great, He explains things well.

  • @bilazaurus2759
    @bilazaurus2759 Před 8 lety +10

    Woah! You have a Reznor hardware. It's Trent Reznor's (NIN) dad stuff!

  • @LSD97123
    @LSD97123 Před 7 lety +4

    Thank you very much Eric, I'm having a vacuum leak on my 87 Corolla, and I can't find where the leak is. this was very helpful

  • @tonyisgro6576
    @tonyisgro6576 Před rokem +1

    Thanks Eric I changed my plugs and cleaned the throttle body - Both needed to be done anyway but they weren’t the problem - this was - really appreciate the help!!

  • @winstonbuzon
    @winstonbuzon Před 10 lety

    I've tried this method on my swap right now just to see if I have leaks in my new swap! It really frickin' works! Thanks, Eric!

  • @ericthecarguy
    @ericthecarguy  Před 12 lety +3

    @ObsessedWitGuitar EGR should not effect the idle unless it's stuck open, I would be looking for vacuum leaks before I looked to the EGR. You might consider posting this over at the ETCG forum for a more detailed answer.

  • @cooljess76
    @cooljess76 Před 12 lety +34

    Hey Eric, I recommend using brake/parts cleaner instead of carb cleaner for a couple reasons. First and most importantly, brake cleaner doesn't dry and crack plastic and rubber parts as badly. And second, brake cleaner tends to evaporate quicker as it's not as oily as carb cleaner. I never really considered the risk of a fire, but will use caution from now on.

    • @giiodude
      @giiodude Před rokem +2

      I’m actually about to test his method out, thanks for the tip. My engine is hiccuping and sluggish. I had 2 cracked intake tubes so I swapped them out for some aftermarket ones. It fixed the problem on top of a spark and boot change. I put some vp racing fuel additive and now my check engine light won’t go away. I going to check for leaks first to make sure that’s the issue and then most likely swap out my stock exhaust for a test pipe set up.

    • @luxinterior3085
      @luxinterior3085 Před rokem +2

      They also have non-flammable brake cleaner as well.

  • @nomebear
    @nomebear Před 2 lety +1

    I found a white plastic vacuum line that was disconnected after noticing the transmissions shifting hard, and the smell of rich gasoline when cold. Where it was supposed to be connected was hard to find, it was feeling under a manifold where I found a short rubber hose connection sticking out of the manifold. Amazing how much better they run when the vacuum leaks are fixed.

  • @FCT8306onTwoWheels
    @FCT8306onTwoWheels Před 10 lety

    Great video EricTheCarGuy, I have a VW GTI 1.8t that has a hissing noise in the area of the intake near the diverter valve, I changed out a hose coming from the downpipe and coupled two autozone hoses together to connect to the diverter valve and since then have had boost issues and lack of torque. You will be the fifth mechanic buddy of mine to have explained to me how to use this method.

  • @jeffarnold1983
    @jeffarnold1983 Před 11 lety +3

    Hey Eric, love your videos. Could you make a video of a vacuum test and what to look for? A few of us still use carburetors and vacuum is very important for carb tuning and ignition timing. It also can tell you other things such as damaged valves. I'd just like to see you do a video on it.

  • @leethao9827
    @leethao9827 Před 11 lety +3

    LOL i was looking for you for a while but now i remember your name Eric the car guy. Subscribed!!

  • @ernestoponce6208
    @ernestoponce6208 Před 10 lety

    awesome video. i was always told "check for vacuum leaks" but i was never really sure how to go about doing this. Thanks for the help

  • @treyslay3974
    @treyslay3974 Před 2 lety +2

    I watched yo videos while in prison I learned a lot @ tha end of my 11yr bid that I missed out on u also got a bunch of certificates completing Q&A thanks Eric 💪💪😜🚗🚘🚦🛣⛽

  • @omchunter6988
    @omchunter6988 Před 10 lety +13

    EricTheCarGuy is my idol lol. Love the vids man!

  • @stanmcdonald-authorofuserr7172

    This guy is the best there is.

  • @helenforsythe2421
    @helenforsythe2421 Před 8 lety

    I have a 94 f150 xlt 5.0 30, she has close to 200 thousand miles on her.. I am fixing what the previous owner did not want to put a few bucks out on. Also learning about vehicles in the process. I had a few error codes on it, did the blinking cel light , 311 and 332, and cleared it by tracing vacuum hoses and finding one that was broken.I put a quick fix on it for now,duct tape, until i find the correct od/id silicone hose to run all new lines. I did get rid of the check engine light and she runs alot better. I want to thank eric the car guy and all of the people here who have posted similar issues and giving me an idea of what to check. Too bad Ford doesnt make a kit for vacuum hose replacement, they could make a few bucks on all of the trucks still running up and down the road.

  • @matthall9070
    @matthall9070 Před 9 lety

    I know just enough about mechanics to get myself in trouble. I watch these kinds of vids all the time and I gotta say that this guy is making good ones. Simple premise on this one but other's have taught me good

    • @bking8162
      @bking8162 Před 2 lety

      @Tony Scotty is the man! But he does talk to loud.. 😂

  • @macstevens4547
    @macstevens4547 Před 10 lety +6

    I got a 1999 ford windstar 3.8 &the heat is not blowing hot try everything it blow just not hot what do I need 2 do fix it got 4 kids & it cold need your help so I know what 2 do so we can have some heat I know it got 2 be something iam looking over because everything is new that I put on what do you think I need 2 do help if you think you know something I can do

  • @JustLacksZazz
    @JustLacksZazz Před 11 lety +3

    Very helpful, thank you! My car has had a high pitched whistle for a long time. Recently it has been running quite hot and starts to shift hard after running for a while. I'm hoping I'm just running lean and a fix of the vacuum leak will solve the issue. Taking it in Monday. Cheers!

    • @17jackboi
      @17jackboi Před rokem

      Did it fix that problem Ik it’s been a while could be hard to remember 😄

    • @17jackboi
      @17jackboi Před rokem

      Did it fix that problem Ik it’s been a while could be hard to remember 😄

    • @JustLacksZazz350
      @JustLacksZazz350 Před rokem

      @@17jackboi that's a tough one 😅 it's very difficult to remember but I'm pretty sure it would up being another issue entirely. We wound up selling the car to a dealer in a trade shortly after the fix as it was not a good vehicle 😔 (responding from my other account)

  • @0516tyjohn
    @0516tyjohn Před 9 lety

    Every video you make is great....saved me more than once!

  • @jesselovejoy6555
    @jesselovejoy6555 Před 2 lety

    I am a subscriber for life after this video,thank you for taking the time to teach us this awesome and easy technique

  • @heartlineeducation5913
    @heartlineeducation5913 Před 7 lety +12

    Thank you for this... Guy at shop said I can use wd-40 for this.... do you agree? thanks!

  • @samsnead7
    @samsnead7 Před 8 lety +72

    Great video eric! Thanks for being professional and not using profanity.

  • @johnsommojr8677
    @johnsommojr8677 Před 5 lety

    Thanks Eric. I finally got a ODBC 2 reader and got a P0171 code. I will use your method shown here to try and find the vacuum leak.

  • @Extraxi274
    @Extraxi274 Před 4 lety +1

    Saved me today man thanks for the video 9 years later

  • @Peppermint1
    @Peppermint1 Před 5 lety +5

    Thanks for the tip. Good to remember that carburetor cleaner can also ignite on a hot engine - so better on a cold engine, and it's also harmful to breath so spray away from you and not on a flat surface so it doesn't rebound back to you (some have powerful jets)

  • @karmicmessenger
    @karmicmessenger Před 8 lety +3

    I've always used this system to check for leaks and one time had a spark jump and the carb cleaner ignited. It is important to spray sparingly so even if it does ignite it won't burn long enough to cause damage. Fire extinguisher is not something you want to be looking for with a fire burning; keep it handy just in case.

  • @SkyKing101010
    @SkyKing101010 Před 10 lety +1

    Thanks Eric. I love these tips because, in a lot of cases I can run right out and try them. My gas mileage is down some so I think I'll be using this one sooner rather that later. I always keep your safety reminders in mind, but don't worry, I'll be using the propane torch method, since I've been looking to get on anyway. Thanks again.

  • @laprepper
    @laprepper Před 6 lety

    Bro, this video is going to help me fix a problem that my car has had forever! I went through 3 sensors already, then found out that my car (most cars) want BOTH 02 sensors replaced at the same time? My next "to do" items are
    1) vacuum leak check
    2) Replace older B1S1 sensor with an identical kwiksen one
    3) If problem persists, new fuel filter
    4) If problem persists but without codes, 6 new plugs
    5) Fuel treatment
    6) Oil change
    7) Prayer!
    FWIW - I went from 02 codes, to misfire codes, to running lean code right now P0174. My car can't make up its mind as far as WTF is wrong! If only I would have gone the extra mile to look up all this fuel trim nonsense earlier... I'm subscribing and giving you thumbs up! :)

  • @joeman543
    @joeman543 Před 9 lety +6

    So why do you need a hose with the propane tank? I understand it makes it easier to direct the propane but is there any necessity to the hose?

    • @michaelengle9062
      @michaelengle9062 Před 9 lety +1

      joeman543 you're correct, just to direct the propane where you want it and still keep the valve under control

    • @brianschafer5188
      @brianschafer5188 Před 9 lety

      Bg2

  • @davidwoog1838
    @davidwoog1838 Před 7 lety +9

    will spraying the rubber hoses with carb cleaner eat them away?

    • @348frank348
      @348frank348 Před 7 lety +3

      no. the residue evaporates

    • @jamesringler987
      @jamesringler987 Před 5 lety +1

      Yeah carb cleaner destroys rubber o rings in seconds

  • @vulture2600
    @vulture2600 Před 10 lety +1

    Great video! I had asked a friend how this was done and I didn't quite wrap my head around it until I saw it done. Makes total sense now!

  • @christophergibson9404
    @christophergibson9404 Před 8 lety +1

    One tip when using carb cleaner. If you use the little extension tube on the can use can also add a old tip from another spray can and put it on the end of the tube. That way the carb cleaner will go through the tube and the extra tip and direct the fluid straight down. Helps when trying to spray into hard to reach areas and tiltling the can stops the flow of carb cleaner.

  • @bobbyjohnnascar
    @bobbyjohnnascar Před 7 lety +39

    Man you gotta start selling Eric the car guy t-shirts!!!!!!!!!!!

    • @null2846
      @null2846 Před 7 lety +4

      I would wear them if his logo wasn't so terrible. I love his videos and I get he's not a graphic designer but... the letters are all smushed together and its italicized, with a amateurish glow on it. Seriously, I'm pretty sure there's tons of fans who would be willing to redesign his logo for free.

    • @jeffbanfieldsflwr3537
      @jeffbanfieldsflwr3537 Před 6 lety

      Bobby John he did, I have one!

    • @tgriffin6938
      @tgriffin6938 Před 5 lety

      His shirts said "Eric The Car Guy teaches you how to set your car on fire!"

  • @newmanfertig886
    @newmanfertig886 Před 10 lety +9

    Dude, I want you to be my mechanic. Where are you. Seriously, thanks for all your videos. You be 'da man.

    • @rosaliemarie4620
      @rosaliemarie4620 Před 3 lety

      Me too..where are you

    • @newmanfertig886
      @newmanfertig886 Před 3 lety

      @@rosaliemarie4620 Raleigh, nc

    • @rosaliemarie4620
      @rosaliemarie4620 Před 3 lety

      @@newmanfertig886 it's beautiful out there, haven't been back since Florence hit Jacksonville.. I'm in California

  • @dchurch2012
    @dchurch2012 Před 8 lety

    Another excellent video! I need to perform this test and I am glad I watched (good point on avoiding FIRE!)

  • @Kaibil66
    @Kaibil66 Před 10 lety +1

    You always do an excellent job. I like your videos. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.

  • @ddd228
    @ddd228 Před 8 lety +6

    Do NOT use an ABC fire extinguisher. It will make a terrible,horrible mess if you have to use it.Get a CO 2 one or Halon. You will thank me later. The propane method will still cause a fire. Stay away from the distributor,if you have one on your engine. Alternator,too. They both produce sparks. EGR is a common vacuum leak point.

    • @RPMX4
      @RPMX4 Před 7 lety +6

      HALON???!! Never. In a confined space, it could kill you. Only CO2.

    • @omegaseamaster1550
      @omegaseamaster1550 Před 6 lety

      RPMX4 Co2 will kill you as well if you use it Ina confined space silly boys.
      Halon is killer for the Nozone layer I mean earths ozone...
      Sorry, that's the Al Gore in me....or David Suzuki , yuck

  • @joshanator83
    @joshanator83 Před 10 lety +5

    Thanks you learned me something lol

  • @Y2daT420
    @Y2daT420 Před 5 lety +1

    another good idea before trying this test is to view the motor running in the dark .. looking closely along the spark plug wires (if you car has them ) if old and cracked they can intermittently ark to the engine block (causes a misfire when this happens ) the ark will ignite any fuel source.. and is a great way to check plug wires .
    if u have misfires that come and go

  • @jimdandy3257
    @jimdandy3257 Před 3 lety

    Heard abort this method but never saw it performed. The way you did it look pretty safe. Thanks.

  • @nagyba
    @nagyba Před 9 lety +46

    Disconnect MAF sensor, block intake, - if it doesnt stall there is a leak! And you can hear the noise too... Safer, easier...

    • @gamepro9505
      @gamepro9505 Před 7 lety +11

      not all cars have a MAF sensor

    • @nitekroller
      @nitekroller Před 7 lety +6

      ^^^^^ This! like my car i am working on at the moment

    • @torkdork69
      @torkdork69 Před 6 lety +1

      B Nagy I came here to learn about leaks and thanks to your comment I think I have got what I was looking for.

    • @johnlacy3611
      @johnlacy3611 Před 6 lety

      gamepro9505 map sensor or maf?

    • @gokermitsewerside358
      @gokermitsewerside358 Před 6 lety

      So if u disconect maf sensor and block intake and car turns off there is no leak? Sorry for replying to an old ass coment just my 05 mustang has a rough idle and i was told i had an exhaust leak i tried what u said and my car turned off.

  • @laynelandon3701
    @laynelandon3701 Před 5 lety +3

    My wife has an 03 Mitsubishi Outlander with the 2.4, it has a rough choppy, loping idle that almost sounds similar to a big aftermarket cam, gets horrible gas mileage for a 4 cylinder. I have looked everywhere for a vacuum leak, I’ve even done the old smoke test and can’t find one. Changed spark plugs, wires, and coil packs, ran fuel system cleaner through several tanks and nothing seems to fix it. So I guess I’m just sort of stumped and tired of fooling with it lately, if anyone reads this and has more advice on what else to check it would be greatly appreciated.. ps it seems to run fine at highway speeds, just idles erratically.

    • @Live4Ibanez
      @Live4Ibanez Před 5 lety +1

      Sounds like a vaccuum leak since at higher speeds, engine vaccuum drops much closer to atmospheric pressure, which would make it run very close to as before the problem started.
      Not familiar with that car at all but if that ignition job didn't solve it then you should investigate vacuum and the fuel system for sure. I'm surprised there aren't any codes being triggered by that?? (I'm no pro mechanic, just somebody who has read a shit ton of forums.) I'd steer you that direction (to forums). I'm sure somebody on a mitsubishi forum has mentioned a similar issue of a vacuum leak at least once. The trick is finding a forum post with closure. good luck with it.

    • @TheAgonzalez94
      @TheAgonzalez94 Před 5 lety +2

      Could be gaskets on your intake manifold. Had similar issues with a 2000 nissan maxima, changed everything like you when in the end it was just gaskets.

    • @GodsendGru
      @GodsendGru Před 5 lety

      Checked for the error codes? (if not get an OBD scanner )
      Has it got a turbo? then Thoroughly check all the air intake rubber pipes...
      1) Check all around INTERCOOLER PIPE TURBO / AIR HOSE
      2) vacuum pipes
      3) turo relates air intake pipes
      once mine had a small puncture in a small connector pipe that leads to turbo, could find only if you bend it & press it . so many mechanics failed to spot it! so s the case with intercooler hose of this 54 reg opel vectra

  • @GeneHeim1
    @GeneHeim1 Před 8 lety

    Some of us Eric, are older or have damaged their hearing. I myself cannot hear the high frequency hiss from a vacuum leak. There are probably ways to "detect" a chronic lean condition, then use a tachometer to detect small jumps in idle speeds. Using instruments because we damaged ourselves a little bit.
    Thanks for the advice on propane. A lot of us use it. I am not sure if MAPP gas or acetylene would work too.
    Fire extinguishers are cheaper than burning your place out. Been there, done that. :)

  • @mattcasdorph
    @mattcasdorph Před 7 měsíci

    Man, I cant tell you how long its been since I seen one of your videos. I need to subscribe 😂

  • @ForumWiedzy
    @ForumWiedzy Před 10 lety +38

    what's the part that was leaking? Fuel Pressure Regulator? - Needs to be replaced and he just hisses? Please answer?

  • @eligiroir9770
    @eligiroir9770 Před 5 lety +13

    1:33 decent fire extinguisher: $60
    Large box of baking soda: $10

    • @tonehernandez5730
      @tonehernandez5730 Před 5 lety +1

      Smart man.

    • @johnwelk6675
      @johnwelk6675 Před 4 lety

      Have fun cleaning all the baking soda off your engine bay lol. If you're doing something like this to your engine in your vehicle why would you cheap out with something that wasn't specifically made to put out a fire. Sounds like a recipe for disaster to me. I'd rather stand a good few feet away from the fire to put it out and hang over top and dump baking soda all over

  • @tm5346
    @tm5346 Před 3 lety

    I love this dude he’s so funny and you’re a man of many different look your look changes all the time I’m never positive if it’s Eric the car guy I watched a video about you and talking about education do have have a very extensive vocabulary acclimated is a big word many people don’t understand or use much ! Have learned a lot from your videos thank you

  • @10ring
    @10ring Před 8 lety

    Can't thank you enough for all your videos.

  • @EvilJ069
    @EvilJ069 Před 10 lety +3

    I had a car that used to stall for seemingly no reason, but start right back up. Turns out that it's distributor had an internal coil and controller chip. When the $5 chip starts to die, you have to replace the entire distributor assembly... Irritating, AND expensive... $300+

  • @jdmcarboy64
    @jdmcarboy64 Před 6 lety +16

    Vacuum leak will also cause a misfire for those who didn't know.

    • @deasttn
      @deasttn Před 6 lety +4

      I have an Audi, so I know this to be true :-)

    • @jarodmorris611
      @jarodmorris611 Před 5 lety +1

      I have a 1997 expedition and have a vacuum leak causing all kinds of codes to be thrown. Fuel bank 1 and fuel bank 2 are lean. Now, off to buy some cigars

    • @ACommenterOnYouTube
      @ACommenterOnYouTube Před 4 lety

      How ..??

  • @MrMeetone
    @MrMeetone Před 8 lety +1

    Thanks EtCG. Always helpful much appreciated

  • @christophercurley3999
    @christophercurley3999 Před 5 lety +1

    Thanks for all the videos very helpful for a poor mechanic like myself

  • @bwcurley
    @bwcurley Před 10 lety +3

    Can you use cigarette or cigar smoke and blow it into a vacuum line? Would this hurt anything?

    • @HeroofSomething
      @HeroofSomething Před 4 lety

      Did you try it? Would also like to know

    • @collinharrison1987
      @collinharrison1987 Před 4 lety

      It won't hurt anything, but it is difficult because the spinning bits tend to make the area too windy unless your leak is severe.

  • @Leon-fo9mj
    @Leon-fo9mj Před 5 lety +10

    "i get a lot of questions about performance issues" haha most guys do at some point.! 😱😆

  • @davidlasher3665
    @davidlasher3665 Před 3 lety

    Thank you Eric the car guy!! Very informative.

  • @ronivester5651
    @ronivester5651 Před 2 lety

    Thanks. I'm going back to my mechanic AGAIN! I went from 28-32mpg to 21.5- 23 might. Hopefully he'll get it right this time!