big turbo, low boost, HELP!

[Rob1]

With all that other stuff aside, could i have a boost leak? when i tied in the boost gauge i tied into the nipple on the turbo just before it met the charge pipe, if i have a boost leak somewhere that would cause the gauge to read low cuz regardles how much air is being pushed by the turbo, if its leaking out then it cant build in the system meaning the gauge will only read how much boost im actualy able to build with the leak right?

can a vacumm leak cause a boost leak since all vacumm becomes positive during boost? and i have heard of something called a smoke test to test for leaks, how does that work?

And what about the factory recirculation valve, if its bad then that could also cause low boost pressure right? im expirienced with the 7mge but turbo is a new world to me i just want to learn all i can about it to get the most out of it. thats why i like asking specific questions here so you guys who know what your doing can help walk me through things as opposed to reading a book