Smoke Procedure - Locate the Leak

2006 Chevrolet Suburban C2500, 6.0 USECTION Smoke Procedure - Locate the Leak
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 GMC Sierra, 2010 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2010 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2010 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
    NOTE: It is not recommended to use the tester in an outside repair bay area because wind and sunlight may affect temperature and your ability to see the smoke.
  1. Turn OFF any fans that may cause air movement around or near the vehicle.
  2. NOTE: Completely unwind the nitrogen/smoke hose from the bracket to optimize the tester's performance.
  3. Connect the nitrogen/smoke hose to the vehicle as directed in the service procedures. Some vehicles require that the nitrogen/smoke hose be connected at the front of the EVAP system at the EVAP service port. An adapter may be necessary. Other vehicles require the connection be made at the rear of the system using an adapter at the fuel fill cap. Consult the service procedures for DTCs that relate to evaporative emission (EVAP) system leaks for vehicle specific instructions regarding connection location and adapters.
  4. Open the nitrogen tank valve and turn the NITROGEN/SMOKE valve on the control panel to SMOKE.
  5. NOTE: The remote switch operates in a push ON, push OFF fashion.
  6. Press and release the remote switch to activate the tester and inject smoke into the EVAP system.
  7. Verify smoke has filled the EVAP system by opening the system opposite the end where smoke is injected. When injecting smoke at the service port, remove the fuel fill cap, or temporarily leave the EVAP canister vent valve open, until smoke is observed. Then close the system and continue testing. If using a special tool fuel fill cap adapter at the filler neck, vent the system at the service port until smoke is observed then close the system to continue with the test.
  8. NOTE: Inject smoke in less than 2-minute cycles for optimum tester performance.
  9. Press and release the remote switch to deactivate the tester.
  10. NOTE: For optimum visual smoke performance, deactivate the smoke flow and allow the system pressure to drop. Allowing the smoke to exit small holes at a low flow rate greatly enhances visibility.
  11. Introduce smoke into the system for an additional 60 seconds. Continue introducing smoke at 15-second intervals, as necessary.
  12. Using the a high-intensity white light, inspect the entire EVAP system path, and look for the source of the leak indicated by the exiting smoke. Introduce smoke at 15-second intervals, as needed, until leak source is identified.
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.