Craftsman 20930 Operator's Manual page 7

THE AUTOMOTIVE VACUUM SYSTEM
VACUUM DISTRIBUTION
All modern automobiles have a vacuum distribution
system (FIGURE 3), consisting of lines, hoses,
fittings and vacuum devices. This system must be
leak proof. If it is not, the engine air/fuel mixture
will be leaned out by the extra air entering the
system through the leaks, thus causing problems
such as burned exhaust valves, uneven idle, stalling,
pre-ignition, burned spark plugs, etc. Additionally,
any vacuum operated device affected by the
vacuum leak will not function properly.
A normal gasoline engine should develop 16-22" Hg
of intake manifold vacuum at idle. This is an
indication that the engine is breathing properly.
If the vacuum is lower, the engine is running less
efficiently. The lower the manifold vacuum, the less
efficiently the engine is running and the lower the
gas mileage will be.
The vacuum distribution system supplies vacuum
to vacuum motors (servos) in the air conditioning,
power brake booster, speed control servo, emission
controls, manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor,
and automatic transmission control systems. In older
vehicles, vacuum is also supplied to the distributor
vacuum advance or retard mechanism. These
devices can be connected directly to manifold
vacuum, or can be controlled through electric
solenoids, thermostatic switches, or other
vacuum controls.
Power Brake
Booster
FIGURE 3: TYPICAL VACUUM DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM
To Intake Manifold
Intake Air Motor
TROUBLESHOOTING THE VACUUM SYSTEM
Most vacuum problems can be traced to leaks, which
occur in hoses, connectors, motor diaphragms or
valves. Pinched lines or clogged valves will also not
allow vacuum flow. Problems can also be traced to
improper mechanical operation of devices driven by
vacuum motors.
The vacuum pump can be used to measure the
amount of vacuum in a hose. The vacuum gauge
feature is very useful for detecting a fluctuating
vacuum supply or a leaky hose. The vacuum pump
feature enables you to check all types of vacuum
operated devices.
On a vacuum motor, for example, the pump is used
to evacuate the diaphragm chamber, which allows
you to check the mechanical operation of the device
as well as the amount of vacuum required to
actuate it. Test for a leaking diaphragm by applying
10" Hg vacuum to the device (FIGURE 4). Observe
the gauge to see if the needle drops after the
actuator stops moving. If the needle continues
to drop, a leaking diaphragm is indicated. If the
diaphragm is okay, the vacuum should hold for
one minute with the needle steady.
VACUUM DISTRIBUTION BLOCK
Auto
Trans
To Speed
Control
Distributor
Advance
5
To A/C
Heater
PRNDL Switch
Brake
Release Motor