Smoke test?

[danalyse]

Thanks for all the answers regarding my pulsing idle. The consensus seems to be a vacuum leak. Is the smoke test the gold standard for finding vacuum leaks? What is it? who does it? What can I expect to pay?

[jlevie]

A smoke test is the definitive diagnostic for intake leaks. The test consists of pressurizing the intake with smoke laden air. Any leaks then become immediately obvious. You just have to find a shop with the right equipment.