Emissions -- Bah Humbug!

[SharkPilot]

I wonder if the calibration of the individual machine has anything to do with the varying readings?

In April my '91 passed fine and the limits had not changed since 2008.
The limits for HC were: 112 @ 15mph and 86 @ 25mph
For NOX it was: 778 @ 15mph and 717 @ 25mph
And for CO: 0.72 @ 15mph and 0.60 @ 25mph

I think I would try going to another location and make certain that they have the correct vehicle information entered. Years ago my truck failed miserably because they had the GVW set too low. Once that was fixed it sailed through just fine.

Like you I am in SoCal so we should have the same standards. It is supposed to be against Federal law to change the standards but I don't trust this state with anything. That being said, the numbers on my print-outs are indeed consistant.

I hope this helps,
Jim

[tomtom72]

Mike. Welcome back!

Do you have a scanner? I ask because it might be a good idea to do a closed loop scan @ idle to see if the O2's are getting lazy....along with seeing the fuel numbers and a few other data items.

Did you add a big bottle of techron to the fuel? That helps me pass the NYS smog inspection.

Off the top of my head, how are the coils and wires, PCV's? I hate to start guessing.

One thing is the CATs must be hot, if they do these tests with cold cats we don't fare so well.


Tom

[SoCalZR1]

Originally Posted by tomtom72

Mike. Welcome back!

Do you have a scanner? I ask because it might be a good idea to do a closed loop scan @ idle to see if the O2's are getting lazy....along with seeing the fuel numbers and a few other data items.

Did you add a big bottle of techron to the fuel? That helps me pass the NYS smog inspection.

Off the top of my head, how are the coils and wires, PCV's? I hate to start guessing.

One thing is the CATs must be hot, if they do these tests with cold cats we don't fare so well.


Tom

Hi Tom,

I have a scanner (3120) but have frankly only used it in static mode. I am not sure if it does real time. I'l go check. Any recommendations on scanners if not.

I did not add any techron or other additive. It may be worth a try. I might swap out the O2 sensors just because they are inexpensive and 20 years old.

I have spark gap a bit high at 042. I might drop that to stock, but I doubt that matters.

In any case, thanks for the input, much appreciated!

Mike

[Z51JEFF]

One thing you guys need to keep in mind is everything that goes into the system also goes in a Carfax,failed smog included.I would shop around and find somebody that speaks flaunt English.The first time I had to have the car Test Only I must have gone to maybe 5 places before I was comfortable with the guy doing the smog.To the OP,I would take the results to a CA referee and let him know something isnt right with these smog stations.Ca wants the strict smog policy,they can find the money,time to look into this.Eveybody that thinks its kinda funny eveytime we in Ca have to jump through hoops for the Smog Circus just wait,it will be in your state at some point.Its inevitable.

[TFENT]

Here is my smog as of 9-10. It had the MH PROM installed in it when smogged. Totally stock 1990 with new injectors, plugs, wires, pumps, and coils.

[SoCalZR1]

Originally Posted by SharkPilot

I wonder if the calibration of the individual machine has anything to do with the varying readings?

In April my '91 passed fine and the limits had not changed since 2008.
The limits for HC were: 112 @ 15mph and 86 @ 25mph
For NOX it was: 778 @ 15mph and 717 @ 25mph
And for CO: 0.72 @ 15mph and 0.60 @ 25mph

I think I would try going to another location and make certain that they have the correct vehicle information entered. Years ago my truck failed miserably because they had the GVW set too low. Once that was fixed it sailed through just fine.

Like you I am in SoCal so we should have the same standards. It is supposed to be against Federal law to change the standards but I don't trust this state with anything. That being said, the numbers on my print-outs are indeed consistant.

I hope this helps,
Jim

Thanks for the input Jim. I am in Tustin so the 10 mile radius should mean the same limits. :-)

I was told that the standards changed a few months ago. It is a little hard to believe that we need to meet higher standard than last year, but this is California I guess. I also have tried to find that actual standards online without luck so far. I am going to try a different station and see what happens.

I think the one thing that is strange to me is that my NOX supposedly went up.

Thanks again.

Mike

[Z51JEFF]

Originally Posted by SoCalZR1

Thanks for the input Jim. I am in Tustin so the 10 mile radius should mean the same limits. :-)

I was told that the standards changed a few months ago. It is a little hard to believe that we need to meet higher standard than last year, but this is California I guess.

I too have heard that the standards have changed.This doesnt seem right,how are these older cars supposed to keep up with tougher standards,remove them from the road?

[GOLDCYLON]

Originally Posted by Z51JEFF

,how are these older cars supposed to keep up with tougher standards,remove them from the road?

Embrace Change

[SoCalZR1]

Originally Posted by GOLDCYLON

Embrace Change

You are funny!!

[Z51JEFF]

Originally Posted by GOLDCYLON

Embrace Change

Embrace change my a$$.When you have your car planted in the garage because you cant drive it anymore,remember this.