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VanagonEuroVan
Subject:Re: Failed Smog Test
From:Mark B. Magee
Date:Sat, 23 Jan 1999 09:41:53 -0600

Forhan, Thomas wrote:

> Whoops!
>
> My 83 9pax sunroof didn't make it! Properly warmed up, at idle it has CO of
> 2.21 pct vice the standard of 1.2 pct, and Hydrocarbons of 276 PPM, vice the
> standard of 220 PPM.
>
> The engine had rings, valves and a head gasket job 15000 miles ago, and
> fresh oil and tune up, when installed 2000 miles ago. Compression is good,
> it doesn't burn any oil, and it runs just fine.
>
> I've got two months to get things in order. If I spend $150 or more (cat and
> o2 sensor) the state will give me a waiver, but I'd rather find out what the
> real problem is. Where to start? Ideas?

Thomas,
I believe you are starting correct, the O2 sensor and next the cat for a Vanagon
of your vintage. If those don't clear the problem (reduce emissions), then plugs
and wires, airfilter. Finally the mass airflow sensor is always a possiblility.
For the money under the rules (I used to live under CAL rules, very similar),
replace the O2 and cat, in that order checking 4-gas analyzation as you go if
possible.

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Shalom                                                    87 GL
Mark Magee                                            91 Westy
Kemah TX USA                                      96 Suzuki 4WD Sport
John 14:6

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