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techn9ne
06-18-2008, 12:28 PM
ask me questions if you need to know something. its dead at my work, and im getting paid to browse zilvia.

Brian
06-18-2008, 12:31 PM
can you still get the Olympic plates in CA?

240trainee
06-18-2008, 12:33 PM
Can you get me a safety inspection sticker for VA?

techn9ne
06-18-2008, 12:33 PM
can you still get the Olympic plates in CA?

i'm not sure. thats a dmv issue. i havent seen anyone with those though.

techn9ne
06-18-2008, 12:34 PM
Can you get me a safety inspection sticker for VA?

i just smog cars, i dont do safety inspections.

techn9ne
06-18-2008, 12:34 PM
and im in california, btw.

240trainee
06-18-2008, 12:37 PM
Sarcasm my friend, sarcasm

Suk02Si
06-18-2008, 12:48 PM
Did you hear about the other Smog shop in Saugus that was raided by the FBI with guns drawn because of a few "hook up" smogs? Pretty crazy and over dramatic I think.

techn9ne
06-18-2008, 12:49 PM
Sarcasm my friend, sarcasm

wasnt sure. VA has no emissions program whatsoever?

techn9ne
06-18-2008, 12:51 PM
Did you hear about the other Smog shop in Saugus that was raided by the FBI with guns drawn because of a few "hook up" smogs? Pretty crazy and over dramatic I think.

lol, nah. i heard about one on bouquet canyon road that was caught for clean piping. cali takes smog as "serious business" and will throw a 10g fine on the technician, and a 10g fine at the shop if caught clean piping. the guy who got busted just bought a new machine, and as far as i know, is still doin it.

Suk02Si
06-18-2008, 12:55 PM
haha, crazy.

Where in SCV is your shop?

techn9ne
06-18-2008, 12:56 PM
haha, crazy.

Where in SCV is your shop?

the shop is called "simply smog" its by that big ass chevron car wash/pacc auto. on the corner of cinema and valencia blvd

xsparc
06-18-2008, 12:59 PM
If i can get my car to run clean without the PAIR valve POS. can it get it certified? i did a SOHC to DOHC swap.

Suk02Si
06-18-2008, 01:00 PM
ahh nice, I hate that intersection, lol. I work up in SCV on the weekends.

blitzsti22
06-18-2008, 01:04 PM
i got a quick question i need to smog my car but it has engine light on because it used to be auto now its 5 speed stock ka 95 would they let me smog it??

techn9ne
06-18-2008, 01:07 PM
If i can get my car to run clean without the PAIR valve POS. can it get it certified? i did a SOHC to DOHC swap.

the 240's had the pulse air injection up till 94. the only check for that emissions system, dyno test or 2 speed idle, is a visual on the component itself, and checking the vacuum lines. depending on whether the technician notices if it is there or not, he can fail it accordingly. TECHNICALLY, he is supposed to fail it. but if it runs through the tailpipe emissions test, he might either overlook it or just pass it so he doesnt have to retest it again.

techn9ne
06-18-2008, 01:11 PM
i got a quick question i need to smog my car but it has engine light on because it used to be auto now its 5 speed stock ka 95 would they let me smog it??

technically, your supposed to fail any car with the check engine light on. but since its not OBD II (96' and newer cars) we dont have to plug the smog machine into the diagnostic connector. if it passes the tailpipe emissions test, i would try taking out the bulb, since there is no way to check if the bulb burned out without pulling the dash, and the smog tech wouldnt see that the MIL is commanded on. how many miles can you go after disconnecting the battery without the light turning on?

blitzsti22
06-18-2008, 01:14 PM
i dont know lol i just got my car about 2 weeks ago and need to smog it its a 1995 240 guess i need to take the light bulb out

techn9ne
06-18-2008, 01:18 PM
i dont know lol i just got my car about 2 weeks ago and need to smog it its a 1995 240 guess i need to take the light bulb out

try disconnecting the battery to turn the light out, and see how long it takes for it to come back on. if it doesnt come on for a long time, disconnect it again then try and get it tested immediately. hopefully the light wont come on during the test. the monitors and drive cycles on the 95-97 nissans usually take a long time to run, so i think you might have a good chance of the check engine light not coming on for a while after disconnecting the battery.

Flybert
06-18-2008, 01:20 PM
Don't take the bulb out. Just wire the oil pressure light to the check engine light.

techn9ne
06-18-2008, 01:24 PM
either way, as long as the light is lit, you get the failhammer 99% of the time.

vvtisupra
06-18-2008, 01:28 PM
I know a dude that use to work at the state ref got fired for giving smog advice online and it wasn't even real advice it was like. You have to go to a ref to get so and so tested if you want to have it BAR'd

sldbyuramg
06-18-2008, 01:28 PM
How come someone can get a GTS-T registered and i cant put an RB20DET into my 240? i just pay for fake smog anyway so it doesn't matter but ive seen a few skylines cruisin around legally registered...

sc ka24e
06-18-2008, 01:28 PM
my s14 barley fails at 15mph but passes nice on 25.. its nox are high.. ive repaced all kinds of stuff (new cat) egr lines etc..... can u tell me a secret to pass... i know u guys dissconnect things to help it out lol....

OOps n/M just saw vvti s post.... lol.. ill figure it out... hope u get some work in.. its tuff all over the country.. especially CA........

WIKID S4TEEN
06-18-2008, 01:34 PM
i got a quick question i need to smog my car but it has engine light on because it used to be auto now its 5 speed stock ka 95 would they let me smog it??

Is this cuz u didn't swap to a 5spd ECU?

blitzsti22
06-18-2008, 01:35 PM
not sure if the ecu was changed into a 5 spd how can i tell

techn9ne
06-18-2008, 01:38 PM
I know a dude that use to work at the state ref got fired for giving smog advice online and it wasn't even real advice it was like. You have to go to a ref to get so and so tested if you want to have it BAR'd


working for the state ref is "serious business." thats a state run joint, not a mom and pop store like my shop. but damn, just for giving ppl advice?

techn9ne
06-18-2008, 01:42 PM
How come someone can get a GTS-T registered and i cant put an RB20DET into my 240? i just pay for fake smog anyway so it doesn't matter but ive seen a few skylines cruisin around legally registered...

theres certain "rules" with engine changes. for gray market vehicles (foreign vehicles, shit like that) it must have all emissions components on it, and get inspected at a BAR referree. but for a domestically sold vehicle, you can only have an engine that was sold stock, in that car, in that year, in california. you cant put "heavy duty" engines in "light duty passenger vehicles". heres all the rules.

http://www.bar.ca.gov/80_BARResources/07_AutoRepair/Engine_Change_Guidelines.html

techn9ne
06-18-2008, 01:45 PM
my s14 barley fails at 15mph but passes nice on 25.. its nox are high.. ive repaced all kinds of stuff (new cat) egr lines etc..... can u tell me a secret to pass... i know u guys dissconnect things to help it out lol....

OOps n/M just saw vvti s post.... lol.. ill figure it out... hope u get some work in.. its tuff all over the country.. especially CA........

so you replaced the egr and cat and its still failing? double check the timing (too for advanced creates NOx.) NOx is also an indicator of lean fuel/air ratio and/or high cylinder temperature. so if it gets serious, check for stuck closed or clogged injectors, carbon deposits, and small gnomes that run around inside the exhaust.

Suk02Si
06-18-2008, 01:46 PM
Don't take the bulb out. Just wire the oil pressure light to the check engine light.

Thats fine, but don't sell the car like that! My g/f bought an Integra and the previous owner did that but didn't tell me. I was having a hell of a time trying to pull codes and trying to figure out what was wrong with that damn car.

sc ka24e
06-18-2008, 01:49 PM
cool yeah ill check it..it didnt pass by about 10 points in 15mph i even used that gaurenteed to pass ish.. but no luck... i found a brittle line that runs from the egr to bpt valve and fixed but havent gone for the retest.. also on the bpt valve when u take it off,close all the holes and blow in it is it supposed to escape air..?? cause this 1 does.. and im not sure if its supposed to seal air or acts as an exhaust

BustedS13
06-18-2008, 01:59 PM
i have an s13 with an sr20det redtop. how many hundreds should i leave on the seat?

sldbyuramg
06-18-2008, 02:08 PM
word...thanks for the info

Forge_55b
06-18-2008, 02:31 PM
on OBDII cars is there a check on SRS airbag systems and what exactly is checked?

techn9ne
06-18-2008, 02:50 PM
cool yeah ill check it..it didnt pass by about 10 points in 15mph i even used that gaurenteed to pass ish.. but no luck... i found a brittle line that runs from the egr to bpt valve and fixed but havent gone for the retest.. also on the bpt valve when u take it off,close all the holes and blow in it is it supposed to escape air..?? cause this 1 does.. and im not sure if its supposed to seal air or acts as an exhaust

im not really sure. the bpt valve is supposed to allow manifold vacuum to the egr to turn the egr on when there is sufficient backpressure in the exhaust and load on the engine. try restricting the exhaust to create backpressure (restricting, not completely blocking) and see if the car shudders or dies. if the car does, the bpt and egr should be working correctly.

sked707
06-18-2008, 02:52 PM
What kind of training/schooling do you need to go through to be a smog tech? How's the pay?

techn9ne
06-18-2008, 02:58 PM
on OBDII cars is there a check on SRS airbag systems and what exactly is checked?

we dont check the airbag systems. we plug the smog machine into the pcm, and it checks for emissions related dtc's

joefresh
06-18-2008, 03:06 PM
how much does your boss want for the q45?
also, i would like to install a "heavy duty" type engine in my vehicle. will this be a problem?

k's_silvia2.0
06-18-2008, 03:06 PM
i have an s13 with an sr20det redtop. how many hundreds should i leave on the seat?

$??? We don't talk about here.

techn9ne
06-18-2008, 03:11 PM
What kind of training/schooling do you need to go through to be a smog tech? How's the pay?

to get it through ase's and actual work experience, you need 2 years in a shop, your A6, A8, L1, and clean air car course, advanced clean air car course, 2005 update, and 2007 update. then you have to take the test.

pay depends on experience, and since im young (21) and my boss is a penny pinching piece of shit, i get 11/hour. but at the dealership, i would have been getting paid at 18.75/hour flat rate. too bad i got fired.

techn9ne
06-18-2008, 03:12 PM
how much does your boss want for the q45?
also, i would like to install a "heavy duty" type engine in my vehicle. will this be a problem?

heavy duty these nuts joe. mike is a douche canoe and left since its slow, and im just doing nothingz

techn9ne
06-18-2008, 03:15 PM
i have an s13 with an sr20det redtop. how many hundreds should i leave on the seat?

from what i heard, sr20's run cleaner than ka's stock for stock. hopefully you can fool the tech doin it since theyre both nissan motors?

WIKID S4TEEN
06-18-2008, 05:20 PM
not sure if the ecu was changed into a 5 spd how can i tell

I don't have a 5spd ECU near me. But I do have Auto.
If it has "A18-B93 GO l" written on it, it's an Auto ECU.
You don't have a buddy you can swap just to test?

blitzsti22
06-18-2008, 11:22 PM
^^^nope i dont got a buddy with a ecu all my buddies have hondas :/

norcal_black240
06-19-2008, 12:23 AM
pay depends on experience, and since im young (21) and my boss is a penny pinching piece of shit, i get 11/hour. but at the dealership, i would have been getting paid at 18.75/hour flat rate. too bad i got fired.

Holy crap I thought all smog techs would at least get paid like 15 bucks a hour. 11 bucks a hour is horrible.

!Zar!
06-19-2008, 12:49 AM
ask me questions if you need to know something. its dead at my work, and im getting paid to browse zilvia.

Is it true that sex in the car puts bad juju on it and I won't be able to pass smog?

techn9ne
06-19-2008, 03:03 AM
Holy crap I thought all smog techs would at least get paid like 15 bucks a hour. 11 bucks a hour is horrible.

yeah, my boss is a bastard. but i need the money, and its easy work.

techn9ne
06-19-2008, 03:05 AM
Is it true that sex in the car puts bad juju on it and I won't be able to pass smog?

yes. the anti sperm sensor in the cabin goes off and turns on the check engine light. the computer will see fail and aids, and immediately stops the dyno so the car is crashed into the wall. then it fails it.

GSXRJJordan
06-19-2008, 03:38 AM
Yo I can't believe you're still up!

There's some great info in this thread.

So my spare car's a '91 S13 with an OBD2 KA in it... as long as the engine passes the sniffer test and visual, they're not going to try and plug anything into it to read codes? Basically, I can just pull the CEL bulb and be straight? What about at the ref?

Also, girlfriend's car is an out-of-state model... can I buy a 49-state cat off the 'net to pass smog here, or do I need a special CA 'absorber' cat? Where should I go to get one? She's got 100k on a 2001 Sentra and it threw a code, mechanic she took it to said replace cat and o2's?

twistedsymphony
06-19-2008, 09:12 AM
Don't take the bulb out. Just wire the oil pressure light to the check engine light.
+1 to this... "astute" techs will notice that the CEL doesn't come on when the car goes through the self test... notice when you first turn the car on all the warning lights come on... this is so you can check if the bulbs are dead. wiring up the CEL to the oil light works great because it will come on with the self test and then go off once the car is up and running.

There are things you can do to the Auto ECU to prevent it from throwing a code, I haven't done it but I've heard its not too difficult, Manaul ECUs go on eBay and the BST all day for $60...

not sure if the ecu was changed into a 5 spd how can i tell

not sure what years yours is but there's a nissan sticker on it with two big letters cross reference those to figure out what it is

Automatic ECUs
11 = 89-90 240sx AT (KA24E) ?
15 = 89-90 240sx AT (KA24E) Cal
25 = 91-94 240sx AT (KA24DE) ?
29 = 91-94 240sx AT (KA24DE)
HU = 95 240sx AT (KA24DE) (mfg before 10/94)
3D = 95 240sx AT (KA24DE) (mfg after 9/94)
CB = 96 240sx AT (KA24DE) Universal
NF = 97-98 240sx AT (KA24DE)
J7 = 97-98 240sx SE AT (KA24DE) (A18-H64 GA4)

Manual ECUs:
10 = 89-90 240sx MT (KA24E) ?
24 = 91-94 240sx MT (KA24DE) ?
28 = 91-94 240sx MT (KA24DE)
HT = 95 240sx MT (KA24DE) (mfg before 10/94) (A18-E07-G90)
3C = 95 240sx MT (KA24DE) (mfg after 9/94)
CA = 96 240sx SE MT (KA24DE) (A18-E27-G46)

^thats a list I've been working on, it's not complete so if you've got something else then you'll need to google about. My car has "HU" because it's an early model 95 with an AT ecu...

mikey0129
06-19-2008, 09:25 AM
my bad abour that yo

techn9ne
06-20-2008, 10:55 AM
Yo I can't believe you're still up!

There's some great info in this thread.

So my spare car's a '91 S13 with an OBD2 KA in it... as long as the engine passes the sniffer test and visual, they're not going to try and plug anything into it to read codes? Basically, I can just pull the CEL bulb and be straight? What about at the ref?

Also, girlfriend's car is an out-of-state model... can I buy a 49-state cat off the 'net to pass smog here, or do I need a special CA 'absorber' cat? Where should I go to get one? She's got 100k on a 2001 Sentra and it threw a code, mechanic she took it to said replace cat and o2's?

on your s13, no, theyre not gonna plug the smog machine into the ecu. as long as it passes the visual check engine light test (aka the check engine light is unlit) and it passes the normal visual and sniffer test, you should be cool. i dunno about the ref though, those guys are crazy.

out of state model cars are only required to pass the federal emissions test, which usually is just lest strict. its still the same test however, just the limits are a little bit higher. im guessing the code was "catalyst threshhold below efficiency" or some shit like that? that code usually goes off when the difference in the front 02 and the rear 02 is not what the ecu sees. so it could be just the cat, or just the 02 sensors. or both.

sldbyuramg
06-20-2008, 11:05 AM
still slow? lol...i need your job

Oo_Skyline_oO
06-20-2008, 11:09 AM
I love my S13, no obd check :) and yes indeed +1 to the guy that suggested to wire the check engine light to the oil pressure light, GENIUS!!!!!!!!

techn9ne
06-20-2008, 11:24 AM
still slow? lol...i need your job

slow as hell right now. but we average about 16 cars a day. one day will have like 10 cars, the next will have like 28

HyperTek
06-20-2008, 12:39 PM
I got a NA chassis rx7 with a jdm turbo swapped motor. Should equal the same as a USDM turbo car, but i got an aftermarket intercooler, exhaust system intake yadda yadda.. If i throw some cats. would it be possible to smog the car? since its a motor swap not original for this model im curious about that.

Ive seen smog guys not worry about intakes since its just air filters. Possible for my car to pass visual on a motor swap since its basically the same as a turbo model?

techn9ne
06-20-2008, 05:04 PM
I got a NA chassis rx7 with a jdm turbo swapped motor. Should equal the same as a USDM turbo car, but i got an aftermarket intercooler, exhaust system intake yadda yadda.. If i throw some cats. would it be possible to smog the car? since its a motor swap not original for this model im curious about that.

Ive seen smog guys not worry about intakes since its just air filters. Possible for my car to pass visual on a motor swap since its basically the same as a turbo model?

intakes usually dont matter. as long as the MAF is on the intake, you can have a snorkel with a penis head air filter sticking out of your roof.

about the engine swap, if the technician doesnt notice that its the jdm motor, since the turbo motor was offered in that year, and all the emissions crap is on it (air injection and egr i believe, as well as cats) it should be fine. worse comes to worse, if he notices its the turbo'd engine, he sends you to a ref.

GSXRJJordan
06-20-2008, 05:17 PM
techn9ne, you're the man. I'll try to get the S13 ref'd instead of just selling it/paying the fine.

So on my g/f's car, should I just reset the CEL and try to smog it first, before buying a new cat? Maybe the 100k mile cat can still pass? Most places are still "pass or you don't pay" right?

techn9ne
06-21-2008, 10:26 AM
techn9ne, you're the man. I'll try to get the S13 ref'd instead of just selling it/paying the fine.

So on my g/f's car, should I just reset the CEL and try to smog it first, before buying a new cat? Maybe the 100k mile cat can still pass? Most places are still "pass or you don't pay" right?

dont do that. when you reset the CEL light (aka disconnect the battery) on an obd 2 car, all the monitors are reset in the ECU, and must be run again. (catalyst monitor, evaporative monitor, 02 sensor monitor etc) if the smog machine notices that more than 2 of these monitors are incomplete (there are usually around 6 or so) it will fail you anyway. what i would try is to reset the check engine light and drive about 75-100 miles. if it doesnt come on after that, try and get it smog'd. if it does, try and find a friend with a scan tool and see if its the same code.

S-Nation S13
06-21-2008, 10:38 AM
techn9ne

240 coupe 93 still throws code 32 egr after i changed egr valve,egr bpt,egr canister valve solenoid,egr metal tube,as well as changing all vac lines behind ka near fire wall. noticed that it will turn on during constant speed ie only on freeway where im in 5th gear 3500 rpms at 60mph or so then itll turn on..sometimes it will suddenly turn off but sometimes stays on til i reset ecu any ideas what it might be

i passed slow speed with timing set @ 31 i know out of spec but failed high speed runnning rich could that be tha problem?

ryguy
06-21-2008, 11:20 AM
Dear Mr. Smog Tech,
My S13 failed NOx last week. Is it likely that it failed because of my 3" exhaust? I have heard that the lack of backpressure doesnt let the EGR operate properly. Any insight into this?

grnappletree14
06-21-2008, 12:36 PM
i have a ?. im putting my ka24de s14 back into my s14 its a 95. i want to know if i can pass smog with some header i have. i believe they are obdx headers they have the egr value connectors and so if i install before i drop it in will it pass smog, or would it be better to just put on the regular exhaust manifold and pass smog and then change it?

murda-c
06-21-2008, 01:10 PM
When you plug into an OBD2 motor, does it give you information on what type of motor it is?

I'm just wondering if i swap for another obd2 motor and i get it running properly and not throwing codes if they'd even notice.

techn9ne
06-22-2008, 06:03 PM
Dear Mr. Smog Tech,
My S13 failed NOx last week. Is it likely that it failed because of my 3" exhaust? I have heard that the lack of backpressure doesnt let the EGR operate properly. Any insight into this?


+1 internets

techn9ne
06-22-2008, 06:10 PM
i have a ?. im putting my ka24de s14 back into my s14 its a 95. i want to know if i can pass smog with some header i have. i believe they are obdx headers they have the egr value connectors and so if i install before i drop it in will it pass smog, or would it be better to just put on the regular exhaust manifold and pass smog and then change it?

it depends. if you get mr by the book smog tech, he will look at the headers and look for a CARB exemption # or an EO (executive order) #. if those arent there, he will fail it on the spot.

if you get the guy that doesnt really care, as long as he sees that the headers have the egr valve connectiors and all the vacuum lines and shit are connected, he probably wont give you grief.

i would just throw on the normal exhaust manifold just to be sure, since your already throwing a whole new engine into the KA, then just swap it later.

techn9ne
06-22-2008, 06:19 PM
When you plug into an OBD2 motor, does it give you information on what type of motor it is?

I'm just wondering if i swap for another obd2 motor and i get it running properly and not throwing codes if they'd even notice.

some obd 2 pcm's will tell you the VIN number of the car they originally came in. but the only thing the smog machine checks for is readiness monitor status and diagnostic trouble codes.

GSXRJJordan
06-23-2008, 12:37 AM
+a shit ton for this thread. Thanks a bunch man :)

shade
06-24-2008, 05:33 PM
What does the visual check comprise of? I'm practically asking for the whole procedure. I might just do what HyperTek said earlier.

SilviaS132008
06-24-2008, 05:42 PM
Dude, ok my 240 doesnt turn over, its been sitting for a year. what you think is the problem??

slipin101
06-24-2008, 05:52 PM
Dear smog tech
i justa had a smog but failed
heres the list of wat i failed...........

fuel evaporative control funtional
MIL/check engine light

everything else is good.

how can i fix that? i know its a leak but how would i go by finding it, i tracked it down to the rear end of the car but no luck finding it. HELP!! need smog ASAP

techn9ne
06-24-2008, 08:59 PM
What does the visual check comprise of? I'm practically asking for the whole procedure. I might just do what HyperTek said earlier.

heres how most smog techs run the visual. they pull the car in, pop the hood, and read the vehicle emissions control information sticker on the underside of the hood. (if you dont have one, we have a manual that tells us the timing specs, emissions components, etc on every car. we're just too lazy to look at it.) theyll jot down the timing spec, engine size, and emissions components they'll look for on their notepad or whatever, along with the mileage, etc. then your car gets put on the dyno. after the dyno run, the computer asks us to inspect (if applicable) the air injection. so pre-94 240's better have the pulse air shit hooked up. then, we look at the pcv, ignition controls, oxygen sensors, fuel rail/injectors, egr valve, vacuum lines, wiring, look for smoke coming off the engine or out of the tail pipe (new test will fail you for visual smoke), liquid fuel leaks, etc. then it asks if the check engine light is on. 95 and older cars will only fail if the mil is on and the smog tech enters that it is on. 96 and newer fail that test automatically, thanks to obd2. then it asks to check idle speed, and timing.

however, alotta smog techs are lazy as fuck, or if the smog joint is busy, they will not even bother to give the engine a second glance and will just pass everything on the visual.

but generally, you'll have Mr. 'merican performance chevy 350 master, who generally doesnt know what and SR looks like. and if he doesnt bother looking at the engine because "its a goddamn piece of shit rice burner," and "all these 4 bangers are the same"

techn9ne
06-24-2008, 09:00 PM
Dude, ok my 240 doesnt turn over, its been sitting for a year. what you think is the problem??

check your blinker fluid and muffler bearing.

techn9ne
06-24-2008, 09:01 PM
Dude, ok my 240 doesnt turn over, its been sitting for a year. what you think is the problem??

if that doesnt work, try making sure your rotary seals aren't blown.

techn9ne
06-24-2008, 09:05 PM
Dear smog tech
i justa had a smog but failed
heres the list of wat i failed...........

fuel evaporative control funtional
MIL/check engine light

everything else is good.

how can i fix that? i know its a leak but how would i go by finding it, i tracked it down to the rear end of the car but no luck finding it. HELP!! need smog ASAP

the evap control functional is that test where they hook that hose up to your gas tank, pinch the line going from the tank to the canister, and pressurize it.

i would check all the rubber hoses connecting from the gas tank up front to the charcoal canister, then the filler neck on your gas tank.

the check engine light on a pre-obd2 car is an insta fail. so try pulling the code off the ecu and go from there.

240trooper
06-24-2008, 09:18 PM
if that doesnt work, try making sure your rotary seals aren't blown.

they might need to rotate the headers allso,:mepoke:

dynamicck
06-25-2008, 01:13 AM
mr. smog tech, I think you should pull the info of where you work off this thread or other threads, and your location.
I would hate to see this thread get into the wrong hands.
Never learned half this info from anywhere else.
+1 for you.

techn9ne
06-26-2008, 02:11 PM
mr. smog tech, I think you should pull the info of where you work off this thread or other threads, and your location.
I would hate to see this thread get into the wrong hands.
Never learned half this info from anywhere else.
+1 for you.

im not worried about it. im helping people pass legitimately, i dont see anything wrong about it.

proud2b3black
07-12-2008, 04:45 AM
from what i read earlier it said that if i remove the light bulb for the check engine light then my car can pass smog? im not getting it exactly cause im really looking for a place to smog my car non-legally but if thats all i have to do then let get that done. i know that the check engine light is part of the visual inspection part only so how else would it fail?

1996 zenki 240sx

techn9ne
07-12-2008, 10:06 AM
from what i read earlier it said that if i remove the light bulb for the check engine light then my car can pass smog? im not getting it exactly cause im really looking for a place to smog my car non-legally but if thats all i have to do then let get that done. i know that the check engine light is part of the visual inspection part only so how else would it fail?

1996 zenki 240sx

for your car, since it is obd2, you cannot pull the check engine light bulb if it is on. 96+ cars we plug into the smog machine and it reads codes directly from the ecu. and you cannot just disconnect the battery either, since the machine will fail you for having incomplete readiness monitors. and to expand a little more, on 95 and older cars, if the check engine light is on, you automatically fail the inspection. if the check engine light doesnt work, you automatically fail the inspection. both of these rules apply to all cars, but since we dont plug 95 and older cars into the smog machine, and the bulb is off, (disconnected or not lit) and the guy does not bother to check if it works, then you will at least have a chance to pass, as long as your car runs the rest of the test fine (visual and tailpipe)

S-Nation S13
07-12-2008, 10:23 AM
+1 to this... "astute" techs will notice that the CEL doesn't come on when the car goes through the self test... notice when you first turn the car on all the warning lights come on... this is so you can check if the bulbs are dead. wiring up the CEL to the oil light works great because it will come on with the self test and then go off once the car is up and running.

There are things you can do to the Auto ECU to prevent it from throwing a code, I haven't done it but I've heard its not too difficult, Manaul ECUs go on eBay and the BST all day for $60...



not sure what years yours is but there's a nissan sticker on it with two big letters cross reference those to figure out what it is

Automatic ECUs
11 = 89-90 240sx AT (KA24E) ?
15 = 89-90 240sx AT (KA24E) Cal
25 = 91-94 240sx AT (KA24DE) ?
29 = 91-94 240sx AT (KA24DE)
HU = 95 240sx AT (KA24DE) (mfg before 10/94)
3D = 95 240sx AT (KA24DE) (mfg after 9/94)
CB = 96 240sx AT (KA24DE) Universal
NF = 97-98 240sx AT (KA24DE)
J7 = 97-98 240sx SE AT (KA24DE) (A18-H64 GA4)

Manual ECUs:
10 = 89-90 240sx MT (KA24E) ?
24 = 91-94 240sx MT (KA24DE) ?
28 = 91-94 240sx MT (KA24DE)
HT = 95 240sx MT (KA24DE) (mfg before 10/94) (A18-E07-G90)
3C = 95 240sx MT (KA24DE) (mfg after 9/94)
CA = 96 240sx SE MT (KA24DE) (A18-E27-G46)

^thats a list I've been working on, it's not complete so if you've got something else then you'll need to google about. My car has "HU" because it's an early model 95 with an AT ecu...

i know i know off topic but was wonderin sorry to kill thread
was wondering mine has a EP on it and mine is manual 93 ka24de is there anyway to confrim this ecu actin all wierd

nysmo240
07-26-2008, 04:54 PM
Waddup? I have a 96 S14 that passed the emissions test but failed becuz the CEL wouldn't come on. The smog tech said that my ECU wasn't throwin any codes eithr so I though it was a burnt bulb. I then bought a bulb from Nissan and just swapped it out with the old one, and still no light. I unplugged the battery for a good several seconds and reconnected, but still no light. I also put the ECU in diagnostics mode and then had it reset, but still not light. Any ideas?

Also, some of the guys here wrote about rewiring it to the oil pressure light...can anyone tell me how u do that and which wires to rewire on the back of the instrument panel? I'll also be lookin it up in my manual in the meantime to try to figure it out.

Thanks.

nysmo240
07-26-2008, 05:45 PM
NVM...for some reason...it's now working. I'm not sure if this may be why, but I stuck a wire from the the oil pressure wire to the CEL wire and then it came on, and stayed on after i removed the wire...maybe it just needed a jumpstart..haha.

redline racer510
07-26-2008, 10:54 PM
my speedo in my s13 doesnt work will this be an issue in my next smog test??

techn9ne
07-29-2008, 10:28 AM
Waddup? I have a 96 S14 that passed the emissions test but failed becuz the CEL wouldn't come on. The smog tech said that my ECU wasn't throwin any codes eithr so I though it was a burnt bulb. I then bought a bulb from Nissan and just swapped it out with the old one, and still no light. I unplugged the battery for a good several seconds and reconnected, but still no light. I also put the ECU in diagnostics mode and then had it reset, but still not light. Any ideas?

Also, some of the guys here wrote about rewiring it to the oil pressure light...can anyone tell me how u do that and which wires to rewire on the back of the instrument panel? I'll also be lookin it up in my manual in the meantime to try to figure it out.

Thanks.

there might not be power/ground going to the wires that turn that bulb on. the light should come on if the key is in the on position but the car is not on.

techn9ne
07-29-2008, 10:28 AM
my speedo in my s13 doesnt work will this be an issue in my next smog test??

as long as the check engine light is not on, you should be fine.

soreballz
07-30-2008, 01:12 AM
My girls car...
91 S13.
95 KA-DE.
New cat.
Timing is perfect.
Recently Seafoamed to clear the carbon deposits.
New plugs, wires, cap and rotor.
EGR works perfectly...

Nox is STILL 6 times over the legal limit. Any ideas?

flclsteve
07-30-2008, 01:19 AM
My girls car...
91 S13.
95 KA-DE.
New cat.
Timing is perfect.
Recently Seafoamed to clear the carbon deposits.
New plugs, wires, cap and rotor.
EGR works perfectly...

Nox is STILL 6 times over the legal limit. Any ideas?
im sure u changed the o2 sensor with the new cat right?

off topic
new plugs and wires still misfiring gonna try a new cap n rotor tommrow too and i also need to check timming

techn9ne
08-06-2008, 05:18 PM
My girls car...
91 S13.
95 KA-DE.
New cat.
Timing is perfect.
Recently Seafoamed to clear the carbon deposits.
New plugs, wires, cap and rotor.
EGR works perfectly...

Nox is STILL 6 times over the legal limit. Any ideas?

does she have heinous 3" exhaust? (the car) is the backpressure valve working correctly? is the pulse air hooked up? what test is it failing for?

MrChow
08-06-2008, 06:17 PM
Wurd. Good oil change? ^^ What did you fail at...

I pass well with.
S14 95 KA
Stock cat
3' exhaust
AEM intake

flclsteve
08-06-2008, 08:40 PM
Mr smog tech.
I have a 97 honda civic witch just got approved for assistance with smog repair fees it failed for high Nox during the 15 mile per hour run
any idea what it might be its a bone stock car

soreballz
08-06-2008, 08:56 PM
does she have heinous 3" exhaust? (the car) is the backpressure valve working correctly? is the pulse air hooked up? what test is it failing for?
2.5" exhaust.
Wtf is a "backpressure valve"? Do you mean EGR?
Pulse air is hooked up, not that it would make any difference. The only function of the the pulse air valve is to pre-heat the cat so the car will run "cleaner" before the engine is fully warmed. Since the tests were all done while the car was hot, the PAIR valve wouldn't have made a shit of a difference. ;)

Its failing a regular test-only... 30 mph test, iirc.

Are you sure you're really a smog tech? lol

techn9ne
08-20-2008, 02:28 PM
2.5" exhaust.
Wtf is a "backpressure valve"? Do you mean EGR?
Pulse air is hooked up, not that it would make any difference. The only function of the the pulse air valve is to pre-heat the cat so the car will run "cleaner" before the engine is fully warmed. Since the tests were all done while the car was hot, the PAIR valve wouldn't have made a shit of a difference. ;)

Its failing a regular test-only... 30 mph test, iirc.

Are you sure you're really a smog tech? lol

actually
the purpose of the pair valve is to act as an afterburner during idle and continue the burn of exhaust gasses after they leave the cylinder. the backpressure valve is connected to the exhaust and controls the vacuum going to the egr. if the exhaust is a larger diameter, there wont be enough backpressure going to the valve. since the valve doesnt have sufficient backpressure, it doesnt work correctly, therefore, the egr valve doesnt work correctly.

techn9ne
08-20-2008, 02:29 PM
Mr smog tech.
I have a 97 honda civic witch just got approved for assistance with smog repair fees it failed for high Nox during the 15 mile per hour run
any idea what it might be its a bone stock car

what motor?

blackrms13
11-08-2008, 12:48 AM
I know this is a old thread but I just failed my smog

91 S13(about 115k) with a stock 95 OBD-I KA(68k), I believe it is a non-cali engine

New Plugs/Wires (about year ago)
New O2 Sensor (2-3 weeks ago, but the tech said "something is wrong with it b/c its running very rich)
2.5inch catback

NO reading is like 7xx max right?
I got like 3000+ reading...

i warmed up my car pretty well before doing the smog(drove from riverside to LA, about 1 hour)

I know the timing is off for sure(well after the test....) need to find a timing light first
gas cap failed(bought a new one right afterwards)

from reading this thread, i assume its time for a new cat?

thanks to whoever can help

MrChow
11-08-2008, 12:15 PM
^^ Yup sounds right your cat. I've the sniffer with my timing being at 10...

blackrms13
11-08-2008, 03:44 PM
which pin should i set it to?
from this pic i saw, the one on the far right, correct?
when i set the timing, should i look at from the top, or from more like a 45 degree angle

SochBAT
11-08-2008, 09:49 PM
Whats the difference between Test Only and normal Smog shops?

Is test only for 'older' cars?

blackrms13
11-08-2008, 10:19 PM
from my research, I think test-only place is selected for the more-likely-to-be-gross-polluter cars and such places only do test, no repair

SochBAT
11-08-2008, 11:33 PM
I think that too, but I wanted confirmation. More Researching!

MrChow
11-09-2008, 02:21 AM
which pin should i set it to?
from this pic i saw, the one on the far right, correct?
when i set the timing, should i look at from the top, or from more like a 45 degree angle
It should be 20 TDC

Timing (http://www.nicoclub.com/articles.php?id=161707)

blackrms13
11-09-2008, 02:31 AM
It should be 20 TDC

Timing (http://www.nicoclub.com/articles.php?id=161707)
thx I have figured out the timing...at least i think i did

i continued my problems here

http://zilvia.net/f/tech-talk/223732-smog-problems.html

SoguRacing
11-09-2008, 02:50 AM
I know this is a old thread but I just failed my smog

91 S13(about 115k) with a stock 95 OBD-I KA(68k), I believe it is a non-cali engine

New Plugs/Wires (about year ago)
New O2 Sensor (2-3 weeks ago, but the tech said "something is wrong with it b/c its running very rich)
2.5inch catback

NO reading is like 7xx max right?
I got like 3000+ reading...

i warmed up my car pretty well before doing the smog(drove from riverside to LA, about 1 hour)

I know the timing is off for sure(well after the test....) need to find a timing light first
gas cap failed(bought a new one right afterwards)

from reading this thread, i assume its time for a new cat?

thanks to whoever can help

if your NOX reading is high then you're running lean not rich. NOX is the production of excess heat in the combustion chamber. a lean condition will cause the NOX number to be excessively high. If all your other numbers were fine, it's not the cat. Try retarding your timing a bit or getting a step colder plugs. this may help.

touge monster
11-09-2008, 03:09 AM
Whats the difference between Test Only and normal Smog shops?

Is test only for 'older' cars?



Correct me if I'm wrong, but they are both the same as far as testing goes.

A test only shop can only test and do nothing else, whereas in a regular smog shops, the techs can make adjustments to your car and replace parts to make it pass.

I think test only are only for older cars.

touge monster
11-09-2008, 03:11 AM
if your NOX reading is high then you're running lean not rich. NOX is the production of excess heat in the combustion chamber. a lean condition will cause the NOX number to be excessively high. If all your other numbers were fine, it's not the cat. Try retarding your timing a bit or getting a step colder plugs. this may help.


Had the same problem.

new plugs and re-adjusting your timing should make it pass.

GSXRJJordan
11-09-2008, 12:11 PM
Correct me if I'm wrong, but they are both the same as far as testing goes.

A test only shop can only test and do nothing else, whereas in a regular smog shops, the techs can make adjustments to your car and replace parts to make it pass.

I think test only are only for older cars.

That's correct.

The TEST ONLY shops are supposed to be "stricter", more like a Ref. The 'regular' smog test guys can repair your car, and "work with you" to get it passed... test only just runs the test, and if you don't pass any single part, get-outta-here.

So lets see how to put this... if you are in a situation where your car for sure won't pass smog, but you don't have to go to Test Only, you can always take it to a "regular" test place and see if they'll work with you. If you have to get it done at a Test Only (the registration/DMV paperwork will tell you at the top in bold), you're probably going to have to buy a smog, and it might be more expensive because Test Only is watched much more closely.

touge monster
11-09-2008, 12:21 PM
California's smog law suck.

blackrms13
11-09-2008, 03:39 PM
if your NOX reading is high then you're running lean not rich. NOX is the production of excess heat in the combustion chamber. a lean condition will cause the NOX number to be excessively high. If all your other numbers were fine, it's not the cat. Try retarding your timing a bit or getting a step colder plugs. this may help.
the guy who previously had my engine said he put in some new Iridium(sp?) plugs a few months ago

should i switch back to the normal Copper ones?

thanks


heres more info regarding my problem
http://zilvia.net/f/tech-talk/223732-smog-problems.html

idlafie
11-11-2008, 10:41 PM
if your NOX reading is high then you're running lean not rich. NOX is the production of excess heat in the combustion chamber. a lean condition will cause the NOX number to be excessively high. If all your other numbers were fine, it's not the cat. Try retarding your timing a bit or getting a step colder plugs. this may help.

High NOX readings is the result of your Exhaust Gas Recirculation, (EGR) system not working. You could have a cut, melted or split vacuum line or bad soleniod somewhere in the EGR system...You'll need a Factory Service Manual to trace the lines & fix the problem.

The purpose of EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) is to reduce the NOx emissions by putting a portion of the vehicle's exhaust gas back into the intake manifold so it mixes with the fuel and air in the combustion chamber. Air is mainly made of oxygen and nitrogen (O2 and N2). At temperatures above 1300°C (2372°F), these molecules split apart and rejoin with each other to make nitrogen oxides (like NO, NO2, etc...).

By adding hot exhaust gases into the combustion chamber, you are lowering peak combustion temperatures. The lower temperatures prevent the O2 and N2 from splitting and combining. Even though the exhaust is hot, about 600°C (or 1112°F), it's much cooler than the 1300°C required to make NOx.

In summary, the exhaust adds mass, increasing the heat capacitance of the mixture (i.e. making it harder to heat up the mixture in the cylinder). Peak temperatures are lower, reducing NOx formation, which ultimately reduces smog in the environment.

EwokVillage
03-05-2009, 10:06 AM
ask me questions if you need to know something. its dead at my work, and im getting paid to browse zilvia.
smog questions here:
just got a 1996 240sx, automatic...it won't pass smog at 15 mph but passes at 25 mph. the MIL/Check Engine light part of the test also fails. the smog place i go to advised me that this is because the battery was disconnected at some point.

what can i do to get this thing done? my registration is coming up and i'm semi-FUBAR.

DALAZ_68
03-05-2009, 11:49 AM
techn9ne - i have my 91 coupe i needa smog for insurance...problem being i have Engine light, code is for EGR (code 32) i know what it is, but i dont have time, ive been told that it can still pass sniffer even wiht this specific code on, but im just wondering if i can bring it to ur shop for smog and if theyll be linient on me wiht the E light on, cuz fuck me, getting to the egr under the manifold is abitch...fat fingures FTMFL

P.S. car is completely stock

noneckgus
04-05-2009, 11:59 PM
so if i customized the stock air filter box would the nox levels be out of spec and cause the car to fail smog?

lflkajfj12123
04-06-2009, 12:22 AM
High NOX readings is the result of your Exhaust Gas Recirculation, (EGR) system not working. You could have a cut, melted or split vacuum line or bad soleniod somewhere in the EGR system...You'll need a Factory Service Manual to trace the lines & fix the problem.

The purpose of EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) is to reduce the NOx emissions by putting a portion of the vehicle's exhaust gas back into the intake manifold so it mixes with the fuel and air in the combustion chamber. Air is mainly made of oxygen and nitrogen (O2 and N2). At temperatures above 1300°C (2372°F), these molecules split apart and rejoin with each other to make nitrogen oxides (like NO, NO2, etc...).

By adding hot exhaust gases into the combustion chamber, you are lowering peak combustion temperatures. The lower temperatures prevent the O2 and N2 from splitting and combining. Even though the exhaust is hot, about 600°C (or 1112°F), it's much cooler than the 1300°C required to make NOx.

In summary, the exhaust adds mass, increasing the heat capacitance of the mixture (i.e. making it harder to heat up the mixture in the cylinder). Peak temperatures are lower, reducing NOx formation, which ultimately reduces smog in the environment.

thank you for explaining the point of the EGR system to me

never knew that

dennydizzo
06-17-2009, 11:49 PM
cant pass smog!!need help! my results:

'93 240sx ka24de all stock except no resonator on stock intake
changed sparkplugs/wires
(except for cylinder #1 couldnt get the suckker out)
got a CAT from lower mile 240sx

15mph
HC.....Max=88......Measured=57
CO.....Max=0.52...Measured=0.01
NOx...Max=704....Measured=3151
25mph
HC.....Max=53......Measured=28
CO.....Max=0.50...Measured=0.01
NOx...Max=738....Measured=1796

recent oil changed
tested egr and car nearly died out when blocked the bottom..
warmed up car on freeway 10mins before test..

what should i do to extremely lower my NOx? should i clean out egr?does
gapping the sparkplugs important for smog? i think i seen i only had 3 pins on my maf is that normal?
any help i would i appreciate it thanks..

miklos
09-09-2009, 04:06 AM
My Smog problem:

I went to Test Only and all Visual passed but my NO at 15mph was 3652 and at 25mph it was 3045. This was tested in California. My cat is 2 years old.

The odd thing is if I join the 2 vacuum lines going to the AIV--the car idles 100rpm higher and much smoother.

zenki.life
09-09-2009, 01:11 PM
nice. you bumped an old ass thread that looks like the OP doesnt even post in anymore

ho0dlumka13
09-09-2009, 02:01 PM
does anyone know if i can pass smog with 248/248 cams?

miklos
09-10-2009, 03:05 PM
nice. you bumped an old ass thread that looks like the OP doesnt even post in anymore
What is the problem posting in an old thread? It isn't closed.

blackrms13
09-10-2009, 03:12 PM
My Smog problem:

I went to Test Only and all Visual passed but my NO at 15mph was 3652 and at 25mph it was 3045. This was tested in California. My cat is 2 years old.

The odd thing is if I join the 2 vacuum lines going to the AIV--the car idles 100rpm higher and much smoother.
most likely ur EGR system is clogged

chibo
09-10-2009, 03:14 PM
What does the OBD2 scanner actually read? Does it get actual RPM numbers or anything? Does it just check that the ECU sends READY for everything?

NINJASPY
09-10-2009, 04:14 PM
Dear smog tech,
question 1. A friend is telling me they no longer do the "reffing" for swapped engines in cars, he was telling me they don't really care about sr20's etc anymore as long as you pass the sniffer/db test.

question 2. What would it take to pass a ls1 in a s14? The car would have two cats, two mufflers, and be quiet. It would also be running the stock ecu/pcm and all factory vacume lines will connected. Engine will also be newer than the chasis. Any other rules to get it to pass?

soreballz
09-10-2009, 05:59 PM
^Those are questions for a State Ref, not a smog tech.

miklos
09-11-2009, 05:37 AM
Dear smog tech,
question 1. A friend is telling me they no longer do the "reffing" for swapped engines in cars, he was telling me they don't really care about sr20's etc anymore as long as you pass the sniffer/db test.

So everyone in California can have an SR20 now?

zenki.life
09-11-2009, 03:53 PM
So everyone in California can have an SR20 now?

i highly doubt that

redline racer510
09-24-2009, 10:20 PM
will a stock s14(95) ka24de with the addition of 248/248 cams from the s13 ka24de pass smog????

GSXRJJordan
09-24-2009, 11:10 PM
So everyone in California can have an SR20 now?

No, they closed the BAR referee stations for a short time this summer (5 weeks I think, I'd have to look it up), but reopened them. If you had a ref ticket go to court at that time, you could say that you called but they couldn't get you inspected, and I heard most people ended up having to pay the fine anyway.

Regardless, Ref stations are back in action now, and cops are certainly still writing the tickets.

will a stock s14(95) ka24de with the addition of 248/248 cams from the s13 ka24de pass smog????

Most likely, if everything else is completely legit. Problem is, most of the cats from ~15yr old cars are 15 yrs old, and have seen more than their recommended 80,000 mi, so any increase in NOx and HC from the cam overlap will definitely show up. Maybe someone who's tried to pass with 248/248's can comment.

SDS13COUPE
09-30-2009, 07:19 PM
Okay, I got one. I've been trying to pass the state ref in my sohc for about 2 months now. Here's the breakdown. No check engine lights and I've passed everything really clean except for NOx. It's starting to get on my nerves. Here is the #'s I'm getting.

HC CO NOx
max ave meas
15mph 118 31 26 0.75 0.10 0.01 799 2371666
25mph 93 20 24 0.63 0.09 0.04 738 199 321

Here is the list of parts I've replaced. Most were just maintenance but they also help.
-plugs
-plug wires
-thermostat
-cts
-fuel filter
-all vacuum lines
-I've also seafoamed the engine(before swapping plugs) and removed the egr valve and cleaned it along with the bypass pipe, and transducer.

So here is the issue. My car isn't getting hot enough. After driving to the ref they check it with the laser thermometer and it only reads between 110 and 130. The thermostat opens and the hoses pressurize, but I just don't get why it fails only at 15mph. I thought it was my fan clutch but after checking 2 other stock sohc's they have the same resistance when trying to spin em. I think I pass at 25 since the rpm's are higher in 2nd gear so the motor heats up more. I think that at 15mph the rpms are too low to heat the motor up enough. The ref even runs the car on the dyno for a minute to warm it too 150 but it still fails. I'm stuck and any help would be appreciated. Sorry for the looooooong post.

miklos
10-01-2009, 12:50 AM
Okay, I got one. I've been trying to pass the state ref in my sohc for about 2 months now. Here's the breakdown. No check engine lights and I've passed everything really clean except for NOx. It's starting to get on my nerves. Here is the #'s I'm getting.

HC CO NOx
max ave meas
15mph 118 31 26 0.75 0.100.01 799 2371666
25mph 93 20 24 0.63 0.09 0.04 738 199 321

Here is the list of parts I've replaced. Most were just maintenance but they also help.
-plugs
-plug wires
-thermostat
-cts
-fuel filter
-all vacuum lines
-I've also seafoamed the engine(before swapping plugs) and removed the egr valve and cleaned it along with the bypass pipe, and transducer.

So here is the issue. My car isn't getting hot enough. After driving to the ref they check it with the laser thermometer and it only reads between 110 and 130. The thermostat opens and the hoses pressurize, but I just don't get why it fails only at 15mph. I thought it was my fan clutch but after checking 2 other stock sohc's they have the same resistance when trying to spin em. I think I pass at 25 since the rpm's are higher in 2nd gear so the motor heats up more. I think that at 15mph the rpms are too low to heat the motor up enough. The ref even runs the car on the dyno for a minute to warm it too 150 but it still fails. I'm stuck and any help would be appreciated. Sorry for the looooooong post.
Maybe get a hotter thermostat, turn off the fans, drive through Van Nuys in August.....it will get hot.

SDS13COUPE
10-01-2009, 10:02 PM
^^
Stock fan clutch, no e-fans. Not interested in hotter thermostat. Not trying to drive all the way to Van Nuys. Anyone else got any ideas? Got another ref appointment on monday, and I want this done and over with.

devnull
10-02-2009, 01:11 AM
How about a new thermostat? Thermostats are designed to fail in the fully open position. That could be the reason why it's not hot enough.

SDS13COUPE
10-02-2009, 07:27 AM
I already replaced it. Any other possibilities?

techn9ne
10-02-2009, 04:02 PM
Whats the difference between Test Only and normal Smog shops?

Is test only for 'older' cars?

test only shops are more inclined to test the car as is. we want you to pass, free retests cost us money. however, we are so closely watched, that if your shit fails (for one reason or another), we usually don't cut you any slack. get out of here, get that shit fixed somewhere else, come back for your retest, gtfo. test and repair shops MAKE MONEY off repairs. if they repair your car, they make the money for the repair, and the smog. as the name states, test only shops dont fix cars. we give the test, you take care of it yourself. test and repairs will test the car, and are allowed to fix it (if you want them to).

on being sent to test only:
california has this thing called "high emitter profile" that sends a "random" 15% of people to a test only shop for no reaason. simple as that. besides that, if your car is salvaged or a gross polluter, california sends you to test only every time, every year.

techn9ne
10-02-2009, 04:09 PM
What does the OBD2 scanner actually read? Does it get actual RPM numbers or anything? Does it just check that the ECU sends READY for everything?

the obd2 check is a functional check. it checks to see if the monitors are complete (all but 2 must be complete in all 96 and newer vehicles) it checks to see if a dtc is in the ECU (automatic fail, no exceptions) and for an RPM signal during the smog test. i know someone is going to ask, so no, you cannot just reset the check engine light. the smog machine hooks up into the ecu, and will automatically fail you because the monitors are not complete. so to pass the obd functional, you should be able to read rpm from your diagnostic connector, all but 2 monitors must be set to "ready", and you must not have a check engine light/dtc

techn9ne
10-02-2009, 04:17 PM
Dear smog tech,
question 1. A friend is telling me they no longer do the "reffing" for swapped engines in cars, he was telling me they don't really care about sr20's etc anymore as long as you pass the sniffer/db test.

question 2. What would it take to pass a ls1 in a s14? The car would have two cats, two mufflers, and be quiet. It would also be running the stock ecu/pcm and all factory vacume lines will connected. Engine will also be newer than the chasis. Any other rules to get it to pass?

rumor had that awhile back, that california laid off the refs, couldnt pay them, whatever. i dont know if thats true or not.

as for question 2
read appendix E of the smog check guide.
http://www.bar.ca.gov/80_BARResources/ftp/pdfdocs/Smog_Check_Guide.pdf

if you are going to bother making this swap legit, i would try and talk to a referee so you can find out exactly what you need to do. once again, he is pretty much the final authority smogwise.

techn9ne
10-02-2009, 04:22 PM
will a stock s14(95) ka24de with the addition of 248/248 cams from the s13 ka24de pass smog????

last time i checked, smog checks didnt get x-ray vision when we got our license. we dont know what we cant see, and assume all internals are stock unless the customer informs us. so, if your car passes with the old cams, and you dont rat yourself out, it is what it is. but if you wanna get technical, they are older parts from an older engine, therefore older model emissions components, and technically fails.

SDS13COUPE
10-03-2009, 03:40 AM
Any recommendations on my ish Mr Tech9?

Okay, I got one. I've been trying to pass the state ref in my sohc for about 2 months now. Here's the breakdown. No check engine lights and I've passed everything really clean except for NOx. It's starting to get on my nerves. Here is the #'s I'm getting.

HC CO NOx
max ave meas
15mph 118 31 26 0.75 0.100.01 799 2371666
25mph 93 20 24 0.63 0.09 0.04 738 199 321

Here is the list of parts I've replaced. Most were just maintenance but they also help.
-plugs
-plug wires
-thermostat
-cts
-fuel filter
-all vacuum lines
-I've also seafoamed the engine(before swapping plugs) and removed the egr valve and cleaned it along with the bypass pipe, and transducer.

So here is the issue. My car isn't getting hot enough. After driving to the ref they check it with the laser thermometer and it only reads between 110 and 130. The thermostat opens and the hoses pressurize, but I just don't get why it fails only at 15mph. I thought it was my fan clutch but after checking 2 other stock sohc's they have the same resistance when trying to spin em. I think I pass at 25 since the rpm's are higher in 2nd gear so the motor heats up more. I think that at 15mph the rpms are too low to heat the motor up enough. The ref even runs the car on the dyno for a minute to warm it too 150 but it still fails. I'm stuck and any help would be appreciated. Sorry for the looooooong post.

sentiumprogram
10-03-2009, 09:43 PM
http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z190/sentiumprogram/Misc/grosspolluter.jpg

I have the same problem... Hi NO readings...on my Honda Accord 4 cylinder.

Im going to try some suggestions some of you members suggested. some of you seem to have the same problem as I do.

techn9ne
10-04-2009, 12:15 PM
nox is increased when:
cylinder temperatures are too high (carbon, motor running hot)
ignition timing is too advanced (base timing or timing advance)
defective egr (not just the valve, the vacuum sources clogged, etc)
lean fuel mixture (low fuel pressure, vacuum leaks, shitty injectors, bad fuel pressure regulator)
if all the above is perfect, check the catalytic convertor. (more than once before you get a new one, these shits are expensive, and dont go bad for no reason, no matter what the shady smog guy tells you)

techn9ne
10-04-2009, 12:17 PM
http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z190/sentiumprogram/Misc/grosspolluter.jpg

I have the same problem... Hi NO readings...on my Honda Accord 4 cylinder.

Im going to try some suggestions some of you members suggested. some of you seem to have the same problem as I do.

theres a somewhat common problem with accord 4 cylinders. the egr ports get clogged with carbon. theres a technical service bulletin on it somewhere if you can find it

joeapple8
10-05-2009, 12:46 PM
I just failed my smog 3 mins ago, im on my laptop using his Wi-Fi, he seems pretty mad cause its pass or dont pay, =\ but yeah heres the results, the HC for 15mph was measured at 132 and maximum allowed was 118, my NOx at 15 was measured at 1556 and maximum allowed is 799. I had no problem for HC at the 25mph test but the NOx was still high measured at 806, and max allowed is 738, the guy said I should check my CAT...

what do you guys think..

its a stock KA24DE with straight pipe...

let me know if u need my other numbers

SlideKing92
10-06-2009, 05:25 AM
I just failed smog and need help cause re registration is coming up in a few weeks and i would like to be able to drive my car. Any help would be great. Here is my numbers. I failed for high CO and high NO

CO Max is: 0.75 and i measured 1.10 for it
NO Max is: 799 and i measured 1993 for it

when i bought the car about 1 1/2 years ago it pass smog with no problems... now this.
The smog guy said i probably need a new cat, but if there is a way i can get my numbers down with out having to dig deep in my wallet for a California legal cat that would be great. I hear seafoam i hear changing the O2 sensor, spark plugs ect ect and i was wondering what you think


Thanks

joeapple8
10-08-2009, 02:13 PM
seafoam kills ur cat

burnsauto
10-08-2009, 02:44 PM
wow....this is why i dont live in Cali. I'm certified for NY inspections where we have smog on obd II vehicles..but def not as strict as any of this.

JDM Sil4ty
10-09-2009, 04:18 AM
Techn9ne, please help .. i failed smog too but my numbers were pretty close .. idk what else to replace .. =/.

this is from the first test i took ..

http://img104.imageshack.us/img104/3669/20091008171115.jpg

my second test, i only replaced my rear o2 sensor because thats wat the CEL was for .. i didnt have a CEL bulb when i took the 1st test -_- ..
the numbers read MAX: 53 Measured: 56 HC PPM
MAX: 704 Measured: 751
http://img196.imageshack.us/img196/161/20091008171152.jpg

my zenki failing ..

http://img104.imageshack.us/img104/1050/20091008152247.jpg

techn9ne
10-12-2009, 09:10 PM
I just failed my smog 3 mins ago, im on my laptop using his Wi-Fi, he seems pretty mad cause its pass or dont pay, =\ but yeah heres the results, the HC for 15mph was measured at 132 and maximum allowed was 118, my NOx at 15 was measured at 1556 and maximum allowed is 799. I had no problem for HC at the 25mph test but the NOx was still high measured at 806, and max allowed is 738, the guy said I should check my CAT...

what do you guys think..

its a stock KA24DE with straight pipe...

let me know if u need my other numbers

if "straight pipe" means no catalytic convertor
you should probably get one. if it means a muffler tip, read on.

easy stuff first. timing, check for vacuum leaks, fouled plugs, wires, obvious shit.
high HC and NOx sometimes mean a misfire. check how much o2 is coming out at the 15mph. if it is high, there is unburned oxygen coming out. check for a misfire. if O2 is low, check the EGR valve, it may be malfunctioning.

techn9ne
10-12-2009, 09:13 PM
I just failed smog and need help cause re registration is coming up in a few weeks and i would like to be able to drive my car. Any help would be great. Here is my numbers. I failed for high CO and high NO

CO Max is: 0.75 and i measured 1.10 for it
NO Max is: 799 and i measured 1993 for it

when i bought the car about 1 1/2 years ago it pass smog with no problems... now this.
The smog guy said i probably need a new cat, but if there is a way i can get my numbers down with out having to dig deep in my wallet for a California legal cat that would be great. I hear seafoam i hear changing the O2 sensor, spark plugs ect ect and i was wondering what you think


Thanks

is this during the 15mph or 25mph?

techn9ne
10-12-2009, 09:16 PM
Techn9ne, please help .. i failed smog too but my numbers were pretty close .. idk what else to replace .. =/.

this is from the first test i took ..

http://img104.imageshack.us/img104/3669/20091008171115.jpg

my second test, i only replaced my rear o2 sensor because thats wat the CEL was for .. i didnt have a CEL bulb when i took the 1st test -_- ..
the numbers read MAX: 53 Measured: 56 HC PPM
MAX: 704 Measured: 751
http://img196.imageshack.us/img196/161/20091008171152.jpg

my zenki failing ..

http://img104.imageshack.us/img104/1050/20091008152247.jpg

is your EGR system good?

techn9ne
10-12-2009, 09:24 PM
seafoam kills ur cat

i personally haven't had any problems with it, but im sure other people have.

burned oil, unburned fuel, and lean exhaust fuck catalytic convertors up. they either melt or clog the substrate.

i have seafoamed my 197xxx mile stock KA a number of times. half the time just to see the spy hunter smoke cloud behind me. and it would be just embarrassing if my car didn't pass smog, right? :bigok:

SlideKing92
10-15-2009, 05:05 AM
Oh sorry it was at 15mph please help my numbers are still above^^^

techn9ne
10-15-2009, 10:58 AM
Oh sorry it was at 15mph please help my numbers are still above^^^

is hc low?
look for something causing a lean condition, or a lean misfire. you have partially burned fuel (co) coming out, as well as high levels of Nox (high cylinder temps, lean air/fuel mix, advanced timing).

S-Nation S13
10-21-2009, 10:29 AM
so i got reffed lol for my external coil,and floor mounted computer (granted i have obd 1 ka) which means he cited me for my stock external coil and assumed i had after market ecu but it was my stock one (m.fullen oceanside pd serial number 1274) effing dumbass citing me for not knowing what the hell is stock or not

so i went to the ref passed all visual but fail the
15 mph :hc 88/103 and no 704/713 <can i run that guranteed to pass juice and lower these numbers? 25mph i passed all so ya whats the best thing i can do? my timing was 18 btdc if i move to 20 or 22 can i lower these number enough to pass?

the repairs ive done
new oem o2 ,oem egr valve,oem egr solenoid,all vac lines changed,new plugs and wires ONLY THING I HAVENT CHANGED WAS CAT, BUT I PASS SMOG COUPLE MONTHS AGO if i have a messed up cat wouldnt i fail across the board ?

blackrms13
10-21-2009, 10:46 AM
so i got reffed lol for my external coil,and floor mounted computer (granted i have obd 1 ka) which means he cited me for my stock external coil and assumed i had after market ecu but it was my stock one (m.fullen oceanside pd serial number 1274) effing dumbass citing me for not knowing what the hell is stock or not

so i went to the ref passed all visual but fail the
15 mph :hc 88/103 and no 704/713 <can i run that guranteed to pass juice and lower these numbers? 25mph i passed all so ya whats the best thing i can do? my timing was 18 btdc if i move to 20 or 22 can i lower these number enough to pass?

the repairs ive done
new oem o2 ,oem egr valve,oem egr solenoid,all vac lines changed,new plugs and wires ONLY THING I HAVENT CHANGED WAS CAT, BUT I PASS SMOG COUPLE MONTHS AGO if i have a messed up cat wouldnt i fail across the board ?
SOHC KA = 15 degree

DOHC KA = 20 degree

that should help the numbers...

miklos
10-22-2009, 05:29 AM
Found out the EGR solenoid had no ground. The manifold passage was filled with carbon where the EGR mounts. The Vacuum lines were melted back there on an SOHC.
And the egr carbon was there after running seafoam through the throttle body twice.

BILLFISHER21
10-22-2009, 08:47 AM
im so happy we dont have emissions in fl

S-Nation S13
10-28-2009, 10:52 AM
SOHC KA = 15 degree

DOHC KA = 20 degree

that should help the numbers...

ok i just did that today i was wondering if i ran that guranteed to pass smog juice would it help more seeing that my numbers are so close?

DALAZ_68
10-28-2009, 02:16 PM
ok i just did that today i was wondering if i ran that guranteed to pass smog juice would it help more seeing that my numbers are so close?
u want a grantee pass, change ur oil, change filter change or clean o2 and plugs...and check if CAT is good :fruit:

blackrms13
10-28-2009, 03:55 PM
those bottle of guarantee to pass thing did not work for me...
then again my numbers were like 3000+ for NOx...so yeah

cc4usmc
10-29-2009, 05:29 PM
How does a smog tech determine that there's a split in a pcv breather hose? I just yanked mine out and cleaned it up and there's no split...and these aren't flimsy little hoses either.

Edit- Is it possible I pulled the wrong hose? I pulled the one coming directly from the pcv. I did a lot of searching but could only come up with threads with dead pictures. When I called the Nissan dealership the guy I spoke to said there are two hoses....so... fuck.

Prime
10-29-2009, 06:08 PM
If you're still answering questions... and don't mind?

High HC @ idle, I don't have to roll just run at idle and I think 2500rpm. Everything else checks super clean. I'm at work and don't have the sheet in front of me atm, so just ideas would help a lot. New o2, new plugs, wires, oil change, fuel filter, 1 yr/o CAT, 91 KA24DE in a 90 chassis, timing 20DBTDC.

stinky_180
10-29-2009, 06:22 PM
my friend was wondering if you can pass smog with a 3" catback exhaust......

completely stock and everything

S-Nation S13
10-30-2009, 11:53 AM
u want a grantee pass, change ur oil, change filter change or clean o2 and plugs...and check if CAT is good :fruit:


read my first post i only failed 15 mph not by that much if i had a bad cat would i have failed at the 25 mph as well and on top of all of my emission required equipment has been change not to long ago 5 months give or take 1 or 2 months i have a dirty ass filter lol

RBD240
10-30-2009, 05:01 PM
Man, i am glad i live in oregon. In a town that has no smog or deq, My rb20 with 3 inch all the way back and no cat would definatly not pass. :2f2f:

My suggestion to all is move. haha

Goodluck to all. sounds like it sucks. :keke:

LB.Motoring
10-30-2009, 05:09 PM
I throw a code because of a wheel sensor, could I clear it drive it around then pass smog?

TurboStrong
11-01-2009, 06:03 PM
hey i was just wondering whats good oil pressure for a s14 sr20det?

SmogSUX
11-06-2009, 07:50 PM
Tell me..if I have a dohc swapped 89...will the smog tech either:

Not care
Not notice
Kick my ass to the curb

miklos
11-07-2009, 01:00 AM
Tell me..if I have a dohc swapped 89...will the smog tech either:

Not care
Not notice
Kick my ass to the curb
BAR told me just come to the referee & they will approve it since it is newer than what came in the 89.

s13love-green
11-07-2009, 11:36 PM
hey so will it pass if i swapped sohc to dohc????
will they auto fail???

NISMO_tuner
11-07-2009, 11:44 PM
hey so will it pass if i swapped sohc to dohc????
will they auto fail???

If your motor can pass smog, the BAR should give you a sticker or plaque saying that your swap is legal since ithe motor is newer than what originally came in your chassis.

s13love-green
11-08-2009, 11:08 AM
do u guys pass cars ...for example i know my wont pass visial so can i take a car same yea and model as a sub to pass mine????

articdragon192
11-08-2009, 12:35 PM
I really don't think that's the point of this thread.

S-Nation S13
11-09-2009, 10:45 AM
had a question, what causes you to fail on low speed hc/nox but not high speed. ive cleaned my air filter/check my plugs/timing/clean throttle plate/had all emission related units changed with oem nissan parts/ cat is still the same "IF I HAD A BAD CAT I KNOW FOR SURE ID FAIL HIGH SPEED AND I WOULD FAILL ALL ACROSS THE BOARD!!!"

S-Nation S13
11-10-2009, 03:46 PM
so i went back to the ref here are me results:
15mph: HC 88/137 CO 0.52/0.06 NO 704/594
25mph: HC 53/53 CO 0.50/0.06 NO 738/530

ive changed everything possible cap n rotor are next as well as new ngk iridiums and wires, is there anything i can do to lower hc only? ive heard of rubbing alcohol ? is this true?

Howlermonkey
11-10-2009, 07:29 PM
In virginia, they use the standards for the newer motor if it's in an older car.

If the car is newer than the motor, they use the car standards.

Of course, the tech. would first have to recognize that the car had a different year motor.

S-Nation S13
11-12-2009, 01:40 PM
anyone anyone????? well today just changed out cap and rotor as well as plug wires,oil change and oil filter currently im going to re-time my ignition , any more things i can do to lower my HC readings?????? please im in need of my car lol its the only transportation i have so any help will do please!!

Dezi
11-13-2009, 02:34 PM
Emissions seem to be a big deal in California but I was wondering if anyone from Florida knows the local laws on emissions or if we are required to get a smog test at all. Another thing I would like to know is if I had a car brought to Florida from another state does it have to get a smog test before I can register it in Florida?

techn9ne
11-15-2009, 01:55 PM
How does a smog tech determine that there's a split in a pcv breather hose? I just yanked mine out and cleaned it up and there's no split...and these aren't flimsy little hoses either.

Edit- Is it possible I pulled the wrong hose? I pulled the one coming directly from the pcv. I did a lot of searching but could only come up with threads with dead pictures. When I called the Nissan dealership the guy I spoke to said there are two hoses....so... fuck.

pcv hose is the big one coming out of the valve cover. yes, THAT big one. it goes into the intake, just before the throttle body on a dohc

techn9ne
11-15-2009, 02:00 PM
anyone anyone????? well today just changed out cap and rotor as well as plug wires,oil change and oil filter currently im going to re-time my ignition , any more things i can do to lower my HC readings?????? please im in need of my car lol its the only transportation i have so any help will do please!!

a cat will drop your emissions across the board. youre still measuring high for HC and NOX. granted you are passing the 25mph, the numbers are still high. if your timing, and smog equipment is on the dot, the only thing i could think of would be a misfire, or the cat might actually be bad. is there high O2 coming out as well?

S-Nation S13
11-16-2009, 11:34 AM
so i went back to the ref here are me results:
15mph: HC 88/137 CO 0.52/0.06 NO 704/594
25mph: HC 53/53 CO 0.50/0.06 NO 738/530

ive changed everything possible cap n rotor are next as well as new ngk iridiums and wires, is there anything i can do to lower hc only? ive heard of rubbing alcohol ? is this true?

Tech here are my current results im only failing at hc at low speed but passing at high speed

techn9ne
11-21-2009, 03:03 PM
Tech here are my current results im only failing at hc at low speed but passing at high speed

none of those are oxygen. its usually to the left of the hc/co/nox columns

S-Nation S13
11-23-2009, 10:56 AM
none of those are oxygen. its usually to the left of the hc/co/nox columns
lol ok so the question is how to i lower HC ?

palmdale_mob
01-05-2010, 01:51 PM
Okay so dumb question, do I have to smog my car every year or every other year for registration?

Its an s13

s14canyoncity
01-05-2010, 02:01 PM
Okay so dumb question, do I have to smog my car every year or every other year for registration?

Its an s13


every other year.

Z U L8R
01-05-2010, 04:24 PM
Relatively vague/unimportant question

1. at what temperatures in the cylinder (or exhaust gas) does nitrogen start to break down into nitrous oxides at an environmentally harmful level?

More important/actually would like to know question

2. what is the average level of NOx ppm at 1600 degrees F of exhaust gas temperature?

i've been wanting to talk to combustion engineers to get this answer to then see if creating an affordable nitrous oxide sensor would be beneficial or redundant for tuning....with the intention of warning the user if they're reaching a level where knocking/pre-detonation is more likely to occur.

then establish whether it's redundant or more effective than just measuring egt's alone or if it's a waste since it's measuring a by product of egt's essentially....

basically just brain storming whether or not this sensor could be more or less useful/accurate than just an egt guage since instead of just measuring the heat and not knowing the chemical composition, it can measure the chemical composition similar to a wide band a/f guage, thus possibly being a useful tool for tuning....or a redundant waste of time and money :)

Dave

EDacIouSX
09-28-2012, 11:57 AM
Ok yes yes I know, old thread. But this is pretty relevant since it's a new law taking effect this January. Here's the link: http://www.smogtips.com/new-smog-law-AB-2289.cfm

How will this effect smogging? Will it be much more difficult to smog a 1996-98 S14 since it now goes through the OBD Port and not the sniffer? And, it said something about pulling the VIN # off the ECU. WTH? Vin numbers are stored on the ECU? Can anyone clear some of this up?

Turtle
09-28-2012, 03:42 PM
I believe thats talking about the new obd system they're coming out.

I didn't read the page since link is broken for me but im assuming thats whats it talking about

chris_s13
09-28-2012, 04:28 PM
yo my nox level is sill high. seafoam the car, gave her a tune up and installed a new cat with. also clean everything but still running high nox and i failed at least 10 times

EDacIouSX
09-29-2012, 02:39 AM
yo my nox level is sill high. seafoam the car, gave her a tune up and installed a new cat with. also clean everything but still running high nox and i failed at least 10 times

I had this problem, High nox is due to your EGR not working properly (EGR helps keep the cylinders cool, hot cylinders = more nox). One of my hoses was collapsed, fixed that and it worked like a charm. But, there's more to your EGR than just the hose but start at the vacuum hoses for your EGR. If not, change/clean your EGR. S13s a little different but it should be in the same area, it's located on the passenger side at the back of your head. Looks something like this:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e25/vancouverbc_2008/egr.jpg http://forums.nicoclub.com/240sx-egr-tutorial-t427162.html



I updated the link on my post.

xErniexChaosx
10-04-2012, 02:39 PM
Hey OP do you still work at smog shop?