To add a data point: My '89 GLi passed the dynamometer smog test with an
entirely hollow catalytic converter.
It was close though. I had no other modifications, just a stock 1.8 16v.
JV
From: "Les Noriel" <[email protected]>
To: <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>
Subject: RE: [a2-16v-list] non-california car to california
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X-Original-Date: Sun, 16 Feb 2003 17:50:40 -0800
Date: Sun, 16 Feb 2003 17:50:40 -0800
As you probably know, California Air Resources Board (CARB)is the strictest
of the 50 states. I am not entirely sure of all of the differences for a
non-California 91 GLi. I've purchased cars that were previously registered
in other states. This process of acquiring CA license plates can sometimes
prove frustrating.
But here are some suggestions:
If you have AAA, they can greatly minimize your exposure to the California
DMV. They would also be helpful in assisting you in what you would need to
transfer the registration of your car to this state.
You will eventually have to get a SMOG certificate in order to get insurance
and registration in CA. Here are some tips:
1. Make sure your car is tuned and running well. A well tuned smooth running
engine will pass the tailpipe test which is critical in CA. If your car has
a lot of mileage, I would suggest using Synthetic oil prior to your
inspection. It seems that Synthetic oil that passes thru worn seals and
rings does not produce the amounts of carbon and other measureable
pollutants that are present in conventional motor oils. This will increase
your chances of passing the tailpipe test. In addition, I also use fuel
injector/system cleaner at least a couple fillups before I take the test.
2. Select a very busy Smog certification station. I would go on the busiest
day of the week (Usually Saturday) During these peak hours, the inspectors
are less likely to spend time on the visual inspection and will often do a
quick visual and the tailpipe test because of the long waiting list. You
will be at an advantage if they are distracted and less focused.
3. I always have my wife take my car to the test. Since she is unfamiliar
with the details of my engines, the inspectors are unable to ask any
questions of her because she is truthfully unable to answer. They are less
likely to ask questions about modifications, conditions, or history of a car
driven by a female. (believe me, this works!)
4. Remove anything that is not OEM from under the hood. Anything that looks
aftermarket will draw their attention and may motivate them to inspect more
closely. However, If you have aftermarket parts that are CARB certified,
bring the documentation that shows the CARB exemption #s.
In many major cities, California smog inspections are performed on a Dyno
while the car is under stress. The results are electronically transmitted to
the DMV in Sacramento to minimize tampering and fraud. If you take the test
and fail, They will know how many attempts you have made and how many times
you have failed. If you are unable to pass, you may be assigned to a
referree station. You want to avoid this scenerio if possible. The engineers
at the referee stations will look up VIN #, engine codes, and chassis #s to
verify the hardware in your car and will be more difficult to pass. They may
require repairs before they allow you to pass. However, They do have the
authority to issue excemptions if you've made a sincere effort to meet their
standards.
I've been able to successfully pass my smog inspections without intervention
of a referree by following the above steps. This has proven successful on
all my VWs including the ones which I've installed different
engines/transmissions. I hope these suggestions work as well for you too.
Good luck
Les
90 Corrrado G60 TEC 2RS
85 Golf with Motronic controlled 2.0 16V
81 VW Truck 2.0l CIS 8V
-----Original Message-----
From: [email protected]
[mailto:[email protected]]On Behalf Of
[email protected]
Sent: Sunday, February 16, 2003 2:17 PM
To: [email protected]
Subject: [a2-16v-list] non-california car to california
Hey all,
Job may require me to move to the Bay area. I currently drive a non-Cal 91
Jetta GLI. What must I do to drive this car and register in California.
All
original emission control equipment for a non-Cal car are on the car.
All stories wanted....
Thanks,
Greg
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