Diagnostic Guide

Engine Air
Sampling Test

A complete step-by-step walkthrough for testing engine air quality using the activator fluid sampling kit.

6 Steps to Completion
1
Step One

Measuring Tube

Remove the oil dipstick and use it to measure the sampling tube. Position the sampling tube so the end sits 1 inch above the max oil level mark. Slide the rubber ring up the tube until it rests just below the dipstick handle.

Ensure the tube end is precisely 1 inch above the max oil mark for accurate sampling.
Oil dipstick and sampling tube measurement
Rubber ring positioned on sampling tube
2
Step Two

Sampling Setup

Insert the sampling tube into the dipstick tube until it reaches the rubber ring. If it stops early, don't force it. Find the arrow on the blue-capped glass vial and lift the cap by pushing up at the arrow.

Never force the tube — if it stops before the rubber ring, the path may have a slight bend.
Sampling tube inserted into dipstick tube
Opening the blue-capped glass vial
3
Step Three

Filling Test Vial

Pour the fluid from the glass vial into the test vial. Since it drains slowly, insert the glass vial into the test vial and tap the back to help it flow. Attach the test vial to the sampling tube, insert the syringe into the top, and place the vial in a safe spot away from the engine.

Keep the assembled unit stable and away from engine heat sources.
Pouring fluid into test vial
Syringe attached to test vial
Complete setup placed in engine bay
4
Step Four

Starting The Vehicle

Turn on the vehicle and let it run at idle for 5 minutes. Once the 5 minute mark is reached, shut off the vehicle.

Use a timer to ensure an accurate 5-minute idle period.
Vehicle ignition switch off
Vehicle ignition switch on
5
Step Five

Drawing Air

With the vehicle off, slowly pull the syringe plunger to draw 100ml of engine air up the sampling tube, bubbling it through the Activator Fluid. Do this gradually.

Pull the plunger slowly and steadily — rushing can cause inaccurate results.
Drawing air through activator fluid
Color comparison chart — Good, Okay, Bad
6
Final Step

Inspecting Fluid Color

Transfer the Activator Fluid from the Test Vial into the 1.5 ml Viewing Vial. Shake for 10 seconds, then compare the color to the chart provided in Step 5.

Shake thoroughly for a full 10 seconds to ensure even color distribution.
Transferring fluid to viewing vial
Viewing vial close-up with fluid color
Engine Air Sampling Diagnostic Guide  ·  Follow all steps carefully for accurate results

Video Instructions