Spoor - Trace
'Spoor' is a hunting term that relates to the tracks left by an animal which would allow a hunter to track them.
We use the same word when hunting for leaks.
As rain water entering a vehicle is dirty and carries with it dust and debris, it will leave 'trace' even if the water is dried. There will often be a clear trail with dust either side showing where water has dripped down a panel.
The course of the water will also leave dirt and grit in low areas, and may even cause trails of corrosion on untreated metal.
Following spoor, is a very useful skill in water leak detection as it can allow a technician to more quickly locate a point of ingress.
We can also create spoor by adding fluorescent dye to water, which is then poured over the exterior of the car. This can then create a trace of water which can easily be seen under ultraviolet light, if not with the naked eye.
Written by Danny Argent. Last updated 25/10/2023 16:22