PINPOINT TEST HZ: Natural Vacuum Leak Detection: Introduction

The use of a soap solution around the capless fuel tank filler pipe or the use of the hydrocarbon emission analyzer to determine an evaporative emission system leak is not recommended. The mandatory Rotunda Evaporative Emission System Leak Tester for On Board Diagnostic (OBD) (including the ultrasonic tester) and the Rotunda Smoke Machine, Fuel Evaporative Emission System Tester 218-00001 or equivalent are the only devices to be used at this time for evaporative emission system leak detection.

When using the Rotunda Smoke Machine, Fuel Evaporative Emission System Tester 218-00001 or equivalent, the fuel level in the fuel tank must be less than 85% full.

This pinpoint test is intended to diagnose the following:

• capless fuel tank filler pipe (9034)
• EVAP purge valve (9C915)
• EVAP system leaks using the Rotunda Smoke Machine, Fuel Evaporative Emission System Tester 218-00001
• harness circuits: EVAPCP, NVLD, VBATT, VPWR and ground
• natural vacuum leak detection (NVLD) module (9J279)
• powertrain control module (PCM) (12A650)

For additional information on the EVAP system, refer to EVAPORATIVE EMISSION (EVAP) SYSTEMS , or the appropriate Evaporative Emissions article.

Fig 1: Identifying EVAP Purge Valve Connector

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Fig 2: Identifying Natural Vacuum Leak Detection (NVLD) Module Connector

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Connector 

For PCM connector views or reference values, refer to REFERENCE VALUES article.