Troubleshooting Air Leak

[phlach]

I've been trying to troubleshoot a suction side air leak for quite some time (bubbles in water). I just created some smoke near various parts to see if I could identify where air might be getting sucked in. I found a definite area, but I'm not 100% sure if this is "normal" or not. Could you look at the following shared photos? I drew a red arrow exactly where the air is getting sucked in. Normal (for cooling the motor)? Or a sign of a shaft or other seal leak?

air suction photos

 

[duraleigh]

No, I don't think that will be it. That area is really not even part of the circulatory system.

You suction side leak should be occurring somewhere between the skimmer and the impeller.

 

[phlach]

No, I don't think that will be it. That area is really not even part of the circulatory system.

You suction side leak should be occurring somewhere between the skimmer and the impeller.

Ok, thanks. Guess I'll keep digging (hopefully no pun intended...)

 

[Richard320]

Try shaving cream instead of smoke.