Leakages on a vehicle’s intake or exhaust gas system can result in a loss of power, increased fuel consumption and even increased pollutant emissions. However, leakages, particularly small ones, are often difficult to detect.

Bosch’s new SMT 300 leak finder now allows automotive workshops to perform leak tests on several closed vehicle systems. Furthermore, the compact device allows the detection of wind or water leakages on windows and door seals.

A completely new method is used to detect leakages: With SMT 300, a special smoke with ultra-violet colour passes a rubber hose before reaching the smoke distributor. Once in place, it is then forwarded to the area to be tested. In this manner, the extraction cone allows for example testing exhaust gas systems.

For its mobile application, the systems can be supplied with power from the vehicle battery. Testing the exhaust gas system for instance, both size and location of a leakage can be detected and determined with just two work steps. The integrated test mode of the SMT 300 allows checking vehicle systems without using smoke at first. That way, smoke only has to be used if required. In addition, the amount of smoke can be controlled, thus allowing economical use of the UV colorant.

Patented colorant solution – manufacturer warranty remains unaffected

In order to detect leakages of colored smoke, the scope of delivery includes special goggles with yellow glasses and a combi lamp. Thanks to the UV light the lamp emits and the special goggles, the UV smoke becomes clearly visible. For the smoke formation, the new Bosch leak finder uses the patented UltraTraceUV colour solution. As the smoke does not damage any vehicle components, using the SMT 300 at the workshop does not affect the manufacturer’s warranty at all. The compact SMT 300 leak finder is equipped with a smoke-flow controller and both a pressure and a vacuum indicator. The company says all accessories are supplied within a robust case.