FOXWELL ST2000 Automotive Smoke Machine User Manual

1. Introduction

The FOXWELL ST2000 is a professional automotive smoke machine designed for quickly and accurately detecting leaks in various vehicle systems. It features a built-in air pump, a digital display, and dual operating modes for both EVAP (low pressure) and Turbo (high pressure) systems. This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use of your ST2000 device.

Figure 1: FOXWELL ST2000 Automotive Smoke Machine and included accessories.

2. Safety Information

• Always operate the device in a well-ventilated area.
• Ensure the vehicle engine is off and cool before performing any tests.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and eye protection.
• Use only the recommended smoke fluid (No.26 Mineral Oil or Baby Oil). Do not use flammable liquids.
• Keep the device away from open flames or sparks.
• Do not block the smoke outlet during operation, except during the self-test as instructed.
• The device is equipped with overheat and overvoltage protection. If the device stops operating, allow it to cool down.

3. Product Overview

3.1 Key Features

• Built-in Air Pump: Eliminates the need for external air sources, making it portable for mobile repairs.
• Digital Display: A 4-inch LCD screen provides real-time data visualization and guided software control.
• Dual Mode Operation: Supports both EVAP (low pressure, 0.44-0.5 PSI) and Turbo (high pressure, 3.6-20 PSI) systems.
• Self-Test Function: Automatically checks for internal leaks to ensure accurate testing.
• Smoke & Pressure Mode: Allows for both smoke generation and pressure decay tests.
• Customized Setup Parameters: Users can adjust test duration and pressure settings.
• Overheat & Overpressure Protection: Ensures safe operation and prevents damage to the device and vehicle systems.
• Fast Smoke Output: Delivers smoke in just 5 seconds for quick leak pinpointing.
• Language & Unit Selection: Supports multiple languages and allows switching between KPA and PSI units.

3.2 Components

The ST2000 package includes:

• ST2000 Smoke Machine Unit
• 23-piece Set of Block Off Caps
• Exhaust Cone
• EVAP Accessories
• Air Intake Bladder
• Power Cable
• Smoke Hose
• Smoke Fluid Bottle (empty)

Figure 2: ST2000 Package Contents.

4. Setup Instructions

4.1 Adding Smoke Fluid

1. Unscrew the oil fill cap on the ST2000 unit.
2. Carefully add approximately 0.7 oz (20 ml) of No.26 Mineral Oil or Baby Oil into the 'Oil Fill' port. Do not overfill.
3. Screw the oil fill cap back on securely.

Figure 3: Adding smoke fluid.

4.2 Connecting Power and Smoke Hose

1. Connect the power cable to the DC 12V port on the ST2000 unit.
2. Connect the red clamp of the power cable to the positive (+) terminal of the vehicle battery and the black clamp to the negative (-) terminal.
3. Attach the smoke hose to the 'Smoke Outlet' port on the ST2000 unit.
4. Prepare the vehicle system for testing by identifying the appropriate access point (e.g., intake manifold, EVAP line) and using the correct adapter or cap from the accessory kit to seal other openings.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Power On and Initial Screen

Once connected to the vehicle battery, the ST2000 will power on and display the main menu on its 4-inch LCD screen. You will see options for 'Turbo' (High Pressure), 'EVAP' (Low Pressure), 'Self Test', and 'Settings'.

Figure 4: Main menu with Turbo and EVAP mode selection.

5.2 Self-Test Function

Before performing a leak test on the vehicle, it is recommended to run a self-test to ensure the machine itself is leak-free and functioning correctly.

1. From the main menu, select 'Self Test'.
2. Follow the on-screen prompts. This typically involves blocking the smoke outlet and observing the pressure readings.
3. The display will indicate if there is a leak within the machine or if it passes the self-test.

5.3 Selecting Test Mode (EVAP or Turbo)

Choose the appropriate mode based on the system you intend to test:

• EVAP (Low Pressure): For testing the Evaporation Emission Control System and other low-pressure systems. Output pressure: 0.44-0.5 PSI (30-35 mBar).
• Turbo (High Pressure): For testing turbocharging systems, intake systems, exhaust systems, and other high-pressure systems. Output pressure: Max 20 PSI (138 kPa).

5.4 Performing a Smoke Test

1. After selecting the mode, choose 'Smoke Test'.
2. Select the system to be tested (e.g., Intake System, Exhaust System). The device may recommend a pressure setting.
3. Set the desired run time for the smoke test (e.g., 5-10 minutes).
4. Connect the smoke hose to the vehicle system using the appropriate adapter.
5. Press 'ENTER' to start the smoke generation and air pump simultaneously. Use 'UP' to control the air pump and 'DOWN' to control smoke.
6. Observe the system for visible smoke, which indicates a leak. The 4-inch LCD screen will display real-time pressure graphs (PSI SET, PSI OUT) and time.

Figure 5: Real-time leak tracking on the LCD screen.

5.5 Performing a Pressure Decay Test

1. After selecting the mode, choose 'Pressure Decay Test'.
2. Connect the smoke hose to the vehicle system and ensure all other openings are sealed.
3. The device will pressurize the system. Observe the pressure drop over time on the LCD screen. A significant pressure drop indicates a leak.

5.6 Settings

From the main menu, select 'Settings' to adjust parameters such as language (English, Français, Português, Deutsch, Italiano, Suomi, Polska) and pressure units (KPA or PSI).

Figure 6: Language and unit selection screen.

6. Maintenance

• Smoke Fluid: Regularly check the smoke fluid level and refill as needed. Use only recommended fluids.
• Cleaning: Wipe the device exterior with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the ST2000 and its accessories in the provided robust storage case in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Hose and Adapters: Inspect hoses and adapters for cracks, wear, or damage before each use. Replace if necessary to ensure proper sealing.

7. Troubleshooting

• No Smoke Output:
  • Check smoke fluid level and refill if low.
  • Ensure the power cable is securely connected to the vehicle battery and the device.
  • Verify the device is not in overheat protection mode (temperature control switch at 115°C will stop heating; allow to cool for 10 minutes).
• No Pressure/Low Pressure:
  • Perform a self-test to check for internal leaks in the machine.
  • Ensure all connections to the vehicle system are tight and sealed. Use appropriate adapters and block off caps.
  • Check for blockages in the smoke hose or adapters.
• Device Not Powering On:
  • Confirm the vehicle battery has sufficient charge (12V DC).
  • Check the power cable for any damage or loose connections.

8. Specifications

9. User Tips

• For hard-to-find leaks, ensure the area is well-lit and consider using a bright flashlight to help spot faint smoke.
• When testing EVAP systems, always use the low-pressure mode to avoid damaging sensitive components.
• The included variety of cap plugs and adapters are crucial for effectively sealing off different parts of the system to isolate the leak. Take time to select the correct size.
• If the smoke output seems weak, check the oil level first. A low oil level is a common cause.

10. Warranty & Support

FOXWELL provides a 1-year warranty for the ST2000 smoke machine. If the product has any problem, it can be exchanged for a new one within 15 days for free. For issues after 15 days, please contact customer support for assistance. FOXWELL is committed to strict quality control and offers professional technical support.

For further assistance, please contact FOXWELL Official Store customer service.