Variable Resistor?
 

Ok so I was reading a thread about passing emissions and the variable resistor was mentioned. Well Im a complete noob and couldnt find it in the FSM and also searched. So A) where on my engine is it? B) What exactly does it do? and C) How do I adjust it? Thanks for your patience.

89 or series five do not have a variable resistor.

well maybe that expalains why i couldnt find it in the FSM, thanks

If you remove the Split Air Solenoid from the ACV and pull the small poppet valve out and put it in your pocket, then reinstall the SplitAir Solenoid, there will be a dramatic increase in the air going to the catalytic converter thru the Split Air Pipe.

The Split Air Solenoid is the aft solenoid on the ACV. That solenoid unscrews with a 19mm wrench. The poppet valve and SPRING might fall down as you unscrew the solenoid, so watch for it. Reinstall the solenoid without the poppet and get the emissions test.

You can do the same for the Port Air Solenoid which is the front solenoid on the ACV. That will increase the air to the exaust ports *some*, which will help.

You should check for the ACV being operable before going for emissions testing. The procedures are in the fsm.

well right now I am without an airpump. I am in the process of obtaining an electric pump which I will plumb directly into the cat, this thread talked about getting your idle as low as possible