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 idle for 10 minutes. In freezing temperatures, drive the vehicle before the 10-minute idle. After 10 minutes, shut off the vehicle.

For diesel engines, drive the vehicle for 10 minutes before testing. After driving, let the engine idle for 2 minutes, then shut it off.

Use a timer to ensure an accurate 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 the activator fluid Activator fluid in the test vial after drawing engine air
6
Final Step

Inspecting Fluid Colour

Transfer the Activator Fluid from the Test Vial into the 1.5 ml Viewing Vial. Shake for 10 seconds, then compare the colour to the chart provide.

Shake thoroughly for a full 10 seconds to ensure even colour distribution.

Open the full colour chart

Transferring fluid to viewing vial Colour comparison chart — good, okay, bad
Watch it done

See the test in action

Engine Air Sampling Diagnostic Guide  ·  Follow all steps carefully for accurate results