Do you know the CA law on swapping motors?, smog Options

[computers4kids]

If you do a conversion to a 76 car in CA, which requires smog checks do you know how the law works in regards to smog? As I recall there's some fine print if the motor is newer or older than than car it's going in (76)?? I still need to talk to the DMV for their version, but I always like to know the answers to my questions before I ask them. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/happy11.gif)
Thanks

[PRS914-6]

To the best of my knowledge you have to comply with whatever smog was required for the actual engine in your car. If you backdate you have to comply with the year of the car and if you install a newer one you comply with the newer regulations. In other words the emissions can never get worse than the original engine.

[Wes V]

The engine has to be the same year or newer.

It has to be what carb considers a "car" engine, not "truck" engine! (a Cayanne engine wouldn't be allowed)

All equipment that is smog related to the engine has to be present and working.

Any aftermarket items on the engine must have a CARB EO number on it and be for the installed engine.

So;

If you swapped in a Chevy V8 that had a smog pump and air injectors, they you would have to install them.

If you swap in an engine that came with fuel injection, then the complete EFI system has to be installed. You can NOT modify the computer in any way! (this is a major problem with some late motor swaps)


The best place to get information on a specific swap is to talk to the State Referee that will be certifying your installation. You can get the phone number to contact the central office at any smog check station. Call them and ask for the address for the one near you. (if they will not give out the address without setting up an appointment, go to Hondatech.com and post up the question about location there)

Go by the Referee and wait until he has time to talk to you. Then just ask your questions. Don't waste his time. Have specifics as to what you want to do. They are pretty helpful, but don't have a lot of spare time.


I've been through the process when I did an engine swap in a Honda I had.

Wes