Tool Review: Redline Detection HD PowerSmoke
The Redline Detection HD PowerSmoke is a diagnostic leak detector that can deliver variable pressure, high-density vapor, through the 20 psi range, says the company. Weighing 19 lbs, this technology replicates the full load of a heavy duty engine so the entire system can be safely tested for faults with the engine off. It can, in a single procedure, reliably detect any high-pressure leak, pinpoint its exact location, and precisely identify failing components. Use this tool to find turbo/boost leaks; charge air cooler leaks; exhaust system leaks; wind leaks and water intrusion; carbon monoxide leaks in the cab; cooling system leaks; intake system leaks; and more. The HD PowerSmoke has highly visible vapor which is completely free of dyes and other contaminants. The HD PowerSmoke also provides up to 40-times the pressure of typical EVAP; runs on compressed air; is powered by 110-250V AC or 12V DC; and performs decay/leak down tests. The HD PowerSmoke comes with all necessary adapters included and two, 8-oz bottles of smoke producing fluid, enough to test over 800 vehicles.
The review
Eric Moore has used other smoke machines before. But he says the thought and engineering in the patented adapters for the Redline Detection HD PowerSmoke set it apart from other tools, adding the adjustable pressure makes this tool versatile.
“The whole tool is just fantastic,” he says.
Moore and his techs at DeMary Truck in Columbus, Ohio, used the HD PowerSmoke on many vehicles – including the Mitsubishi Fuso Canter, which they are a dealer for.
“We have diagnosed emissions issues, DPF efficiencies, EGR systems,” he explains. “A lot of what the Redline Detection HD PowerSmoke was used for was finding exhaust leaks in SCR systems. With today’s diesel vehicles needing to be clean idle certified, the exhaust/emissions systems are extremely complex and have very specific ranges where they will work or not work. The smallest exhaust leak can cause false readings, MIL sets, de-rating of engine power and ultimately break down if gone unrepaired.”
Moore says the HD PowerSmoke is 99 percent effective in finding these leaks with the remaining 1 percent unfound due to improper use of the tool or technician oversight. “I can’t stress enough how helpful this tool is in finding the elusive failures that used to result in hours of tear down and inspection,” says Moore.
While offering an increase in efficiency and productivity, Moore says the tool requires a little assembly and preparation. Once out of the packaging, smoke producing fluid (which comes included with the HD Powersmoke) needs to be added and the attachments need to be arranged. Moore says a representative from Redline visited his shop and spent time with the technicians.
“Once he went over it, and showed them some techniques, it is really simple use,” Moore says. “It probably, on average, takes longer to set it up for the application than it does to actively use it. At times, it can be a ‘set it and forget it’ tool, as it takes time for the vapor to travel throughout the system being tested. This allowed the tech to accomplish other tasks while waiting for the results.”
The Redline Detection HD PowerSmoke comes packaged in styrofoam and the accessories come in blow-molded cases. Every machine comes with a detailed operating manual. Moore notes there were two DVDs in the package and he found applicable YouTube videos online.
“While some of our techs were intimidated by the Redline Detection HD PowerSmoke, the ones that used it are absolutely in love with it,” Moore says. “No rating goes high enough to put a number on this piece of equipment. This is one that shop owners need to see in action and invest in.”
