[DeTomaso] NPC-1988 GMC Smog Test

[Art Stephens]

      Great news to report!  Fully expecting  to fail my California smog test,  (after nearly failing two years ago),  I was amazed when I passed with flying colors!  I mean I didn't just pass,  I smoked the test!  No pun intended.  My truck put out maybe 10% of the emissions it did two years ago!  In preparation for this year's test,  I did four things different.  First off,  I added one quart of the Lucas Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer.  Next I used the CRC Guaranteed to Pass,  Emissions Test Formula,  Complete Fuel System Cleaner.  I replaced my standard AC Delco spark plugs that had 99,000 miles on them.  The same plugs had 73,000 miles on them during the last test two years ago.  (Maybe that was my Problem).  Finally,  I got the engine good and hot before testing.  I drove to the facility in lower than normal gears,  turning higher rpms.  I want to thank all of you guys that responded,  for your help.  It was much appreciated!  

Art


  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Art Stephens 
  To: detomaso at realbig.com 
  Sent: Sunday, January 06, 2008 9:03 AM
  Subject: NPC-1988 GMC Smog Test


       I have a 1988 GMC 2500 3/4 ton pick up truck that has to be smog tested here in California this month.  Two years ago it only passed by the skin of it's teeth.  In the 15 mph Hydrocarbon test,  it blew 115 when 116 is allowable.  So,  I am pretty sure it is not going to pass this time.  My question is,  what can I replace to at least have a chance of passing?  I failed the hydrocarbon test four years ago and after replacing the catalytic converter,  I passed,  but not with flying colors.  The catalytic converter has about 50,000 miles on it and the EGR valve is six years old with about 80,000 miles on it.  The oxygen sensor is almost six years old with about 75,000 miles on it.  The engine is still running good after 282,000 miles.  I'm guessing that an engine rebuild would solve the hydrocarbon problem but of course,  I don't want to do that.  Any suggestions?

  Thanks,
  Art