According to the Bureau of Automotive Repair :
http://www.smogcheck.ca.gov/smogweb/geninfo/default.asp?refpage=/GenInfo/OtherInfo/Frequently_Asked_Questions_Part_1.htm

                                Q: Why am I being sent to a Test-Only station?
My car has
                                  never failed Smog Check.
                                  A: Your car was most likely picked up in the
High Emitter
                                  Profile. Even though it may never have failed
before, it has been
                                  identified through a computer-based selection
process as a
                                  vehicle which is likely to be emitting
unhealthy levels of harmful
                                  pollutants. Or, it could be part of the
                                  2 Percent Random Selection Program.

It is okay to change engines in California provided the new engine meets the
polution standards of the year of manufacture of the vehicle or newer. The
first time you smog with an engine conversion you will probably have to go to a
referee station to get the vehicle checked out and issued a certificate number.

Todd
'88 Westy

"Smola, Tony" wrote:

> I just had my Vanagon smogged today.  I had to take it to a special smog
> station known as a "test only station".
>
> These smog stations are very strict and check out everything under the deck
> lid to make sure everything is stock and
>
> working.  The smog guy even checked the gas filler and did a pressure test
> on the gas cap.  I had to set the timing to
>
> the specs of 5 degrees ATDC in order for my 85 Westy to pass.  Then of
> course I set the timing back to 6 degrees
>
> BTDC after I passed with flying colors.  135,000 and still running strong
> and clean.  So bottom line here is,  don"t mess
>
> with conversions here in California unless you can just plug in a stock
> motor every 2 years.    My choice would be the
>
> 1.8 L turbo with a chip and an Audi TT turbo..........225 HP.......and it
> fits with room to spare.......sorry 6 cyl subi dudes.
>
> Malibu Tony
> 1.9 L      85 Westy......6   degrees BTDC.....try it 1.9 L owners!