The advantage of using smoke is two-fold; smoke is about as thin a film that can be applied and transfer. And smoke works for the male part and the female recipient; no pun intended. Smoke on a top strap shows where it is bearing on the inlet, and it also shows where it is being transferred from the mating part. As it is transferred off the mating barrel hook, and also shows where it is mating on the pin.
I always blow the lamp out after smoking a part, less to breath in. Light with my butane lighter. Sore thumb though.
Very good topic and suggestions.
