I used to work for CA DMV and this is what I was given to understand as
well.  In addition there are some referees who have passed such conversions
and if you can find one, maybe by advertising on the list?, make sure you go
to that one person.

The actual law is pretty vague so they can rule however they wish.  You
could beat a bad ruling if you had enough money or friends in high places
but it's easier to go to the right person first.

JMHO,

Mike

On 3/15/04 4:03 PM, "Steven Dodson" <steven@EPOCHDESIGN.COM> wrote:

> Guys,
>
> I've had many discussions with the folks at the CA DMV head office and
> a gas Vanagon may be converted to diesel in California if:
> 1) Engine is newer than the vehicle that is converted.
> 2) Engine has all factory emission controls as sold and installed in the
> original vehicle.
> 3) You don't tell them what the engine came out of, if you can avoid it.
> 4) Diesel was smog exempt when installed in original vehicle.
> 5) The least amount of information is best. If asked, you did it yourself,
> etc...
> This is what a few representatives suggested. I called and talked to
> different people, just to make sure I'd get a similar answer. I'd recommend
> calling yourself, just to make sure.
>
> Diesels are otherwise exempt from smog requirements, for now.
> You will still have to deal with the Cal Smog Ref, who may interpret the law
> as he see's fit.
> Better hope he got lucky the night before.
>
> If you are piecing together a TD from buckets of parts, doubt you'll get it
> passed in CA.
>
> I'm going 2001 TDi with Oxi-cat and all the necessary stuff. I'm amidst
> working on a kit for it.
>
> -Steven Dodson
> Kneeland, CA
> "Inga" the 87 Syncro
>
>> If you know a way to convert from gas to diesel and get it registered in
>> California, please share the wealth.  I would very much like to convert
>> my Syncro to diesel, but...
>
>> Michael Snow
>
>