To Trick or Not to Trick (CA SMOG TEST) need to pass
 

I just bought my first FC and its in pretty good condition, or so i think anyway. it had an engine rebuild about 6 years ago at 170k miles and right now the mileage reading is in the high 170k. (hasn't been driven alot) it did pass the smog test in 2006 but im a little worried it may not this time because the exhaust smells rich? i think? and its also white on start up. Is this normal and do you think it would pass? or should i try the denatured alcohol trick to ensure my passing. and if I should do the alcohol trick what percentage should i use?

Thanks in advance!

The condition of the main cat and air pump/ACV will determine if you pass. If it passed 2 years ago, it'll probably pass just fine now. The exhaust always smells rich; idle AFRs are going to be rich (11-13 AFR). A little smoke on startup is common on higher mileage engines. Using alcohol will have little to no effect on the test, and you don't want to use much of it. I can't think of the ratio, but it's minimal (1 gallon EtOH to 5 gallons of gasoline?).

This is why I love living in Kentucky, one of the few reasons though.

Just make sure you drive around for 30 minutes or more before you get smog checked, that way it will help clear up any of the gas used for start up and help you pass even better.

Ok Im really relieved to hear that its normally smells rich. Just didnt expect to be like that! Thanks for the info ill get back with results in the near future.

I just had one thing on my mind though I have heard about cars passing the smog test by running say 50% Denatured Alcohol / methonol in their tank, as a last resort. Is this safe to do? I know the methanol eats at seals but what about the alcohol?

You are a rocks throw away from my shop.

www.smogmaster.net

Come on by on a Sunday sometime, I'll be glad to get your car on the sniffer and see how it is.

Thanks I was actually looking for you in one of my older posts because you said you would be able to help me out with it and it looks like you found me instead! I also happen to find out tht my speedo cable has been popped out and im not sure if its still use able.

I just noticed, if the speedo cable was out it could have been driven alot without actually recording it right?.... :(