Introduction
The ANCEL L5000 PRO is an advanced automotive smoke machine leak detector designed for comprehensive vehicle system diagnostics. It integrates pressure decay and vacuum testing capabilities, offering a wide pressure output range from -0.1 to 20.3 PSI. This device assists in quickly and safely identifying leaks, reducing diagnostic time and improving repair accuracy across various automotive systems.
Key Features
- Dual Testing Modes: Combines pressure decay and vacuum testing for thorough leak detection.
- Wide Pressure Range: Adjustable pressure output from -0.1 to 20.3 PSI, suitable for various systems.
- System Compatibility: Detects leaks in EVAP, turbo, intake, exhaust, cooling, crankcase, and EGR systems.
- Precision LCD Display: Ultra-precise ±0.001 PSI LCD screen tracks tiny pressure drops in real-time, offering text or graph views.
- Built-In Air Pump: Eliminates the need for an external compressor, providing adjustable pressure up to 20.3 PSI and thick smoke in seconds.
- Smart Safety Shutdown: Features overheat and preset pressure limit protection for safe operation.
- Comprehensive Accessory Kit: Includes EVAP adapters, power cable, intake bladder, cones, hoses, high-pressure plugs, and red caps for diverse vehicle types (DC12V).
Package Contents
The ANCEL L5000 PRO package includes the following items:
- 1x ANCEL L5000 PRO Smoke Leak Detector
- 1x User Manual
- A full set of accessories (EVAP adapters, power cable, intake bladder, cones, hoses, 12 high-pressure plugs, 23 red caps).

Image: Contents of the ANCEL L5000 PRO package, including the main unit and various adapters.
Setup
- Add Smoke Oil: Unscrew the oil filler cap on the top of the unit. Use the provided funnel to add mineral oil or baby oil. Ensure the oil level is between the MAX and MIN marks on the side indicator.
- Connect Smoke Hose: Attach the smoke outlet hose to the designated port on the unit.
- Connect Power: Connect the power cable to the DC 12V input port on the unit. Attach the alligator clips to a 12V DC vehicle battery (red to positive, black to negative).
- Attach Hook: Screw the hanging hook into the top of the unit for convenient placement under the vehicle's hood.

Image: Visual guide for setting up the ANCEL L5000 PRO, showing steps for adding oil, connecting hoses, and powering the unit.
Video: Unboxing and initial setup of the ANCEL L5000 PRO, demonstrating how to prepare the device for use.
Operating Modes
The ANCEL L5000 PRO offers multiple operating modes to suit different leak detection needs:
- Low Pressure Mode (0.5 PSI): Ideal for detecting leaks in sensitive systems like EVAP and fuel tanks without causing damage.
- High Pressure Mode (20.3 PSI): Suitable for high-boost systems such as turbochargers, intercoolers, and intake manifolds.
- Custom Mode (0.4-20 PSI): Allows manual adjustment of pressure to adapt to specific system requirements.
- Pressure Decay Test: Diagnoses leaks without smoke by tracking pressure drops over time, saving smoke oil and detecting micro leaks.
- Vacuum Test: An exclusive vacuum mode that restores the real leakage process, reducing false positives and detecting leaks beyond what smoke can visibly show.

Image: Overview of the three main operating modes (EVAP, Turbo, Customizable) and the systems they cover.

Image: Illustration of Pressure Decay Test and Vacuum Test modes, showing pressure changes over time for systems with and without leaks.
Leak Detection Applications
The ANCEL L5000 PRO is versatile and can be used to diagnose leaks in various vehicle systems:
- EVAP System: Detects leaks in the evaporative emission control system.
- Fuel System: Identifies leaks in fuel lines and fuel tanks.
- Exhaust System: Pinpoints leaks in the exhaust manifold, pipes, and muffler.
- Cooling System: Checks for leaks in radiators, hoses, and other cooling components.
- Intake System: Locates leaks in intake manifolds, throttle bodies, and air ducts.
- Turbo System: Diagnoses boost leaks in turbocharged engines.
- Crankcase System: Checks for leaks in the crankcase ventilation system.
- EGR System: Identifies leaks in the Exhaust Gas Recirculation system.
- Cabin Leaks: Can be used to detect leaks in windows, sunroofs, and cabin areas by filling the cabin with smoke.

Image: Diagram showing various vehicle systems covered by the ANCEL L5000 PRO, including EVAP, Turbo, Intake, Exhaust, Cooling, and Fuel Systems.
Video: Demonstration of dual-mode automotive smoke machine applications, showing its use in various vehicle systems.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your ANCEL L5000 PRO, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Error | Possible Reason | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| LCD not ON | Mistaken positive to negative; Poor contact of power line | Connect to power source correctly; Check with meter if the power line is broken, confirm and replace the power lines. |
| Pump's not on | Poor contact of pump's power line; Pump failure | Check the wiring from PCB to the pump; Replace a new pump. |
| Pump's on but no air output | Electromagnetic valve malfunction | Check if the wiring from PCB to the electromagnetic valve went loose. Electromagnetic valve is faulty, cannot be opened. Make reference to "Pump's not on". |
| No smoke output | Smoke oil out or overfilled; Voltage Low; Heater damaged | Check oil level, turn unit upside down while the oil filler port is open, and refill to the correct level. Check battery voltage if it's over 12V. If current consumption is less than 3A, replace the heating rod. |
| Weak smoke, obvious oil drops from the output | Smoke oil not compatible; Voltage Low | Change proper smoke oil (mineral oil or baby oil can be used). Check battery voltage if it's over 12V. |
| Slow oil drops from the output | Normal smoke condensation | Periodically take off the smoke hose and blow it with an air gun. |
| Sudden stop of smoke output | Overheat protection activated | Cool down the unit before use again. |
| Overheat occurs fast | Oil level is too low; Smoke oil not compatible | The unit needs a refill. Change proper smoke oil. |
For further assistance, please refer to the user manual or contact ANCEL support.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Output Pressure | 0.4-20.3 PSI |
| Vacuum Test Range | -0.1 to -0.03 PSI |
| Power Supply | DC 12V Vehicle Battery |
| Flow Rate | < 8 Amp |
| Compatible Smoke Fluids | Mineral Oil / Baby Oil (Not included) |
| Item Weight | 9.06 pounds |
| Package Dimensions | 12.91 x 9.65 x 8.58 inches |
| Material | Metal |
Warranty & Support
The ANCEL L5000 PRO comes with a 1 Year Manufacturer Warranty.
For technical support, troubleshooting, or warranty claims, please refer to the contact information provided in your user manual or visit the official ANCEL website.





