Smog Test Mystery
I have been taking our 2004 Tioga 26Q to the same smog test only shop for a number of years. Each time the Asian technician tells me that it did not pass the test, but that he would get it to pass, (...
Forum Discussion
Bordercollie wrote:
I have been taking our 2004 Tioga 26Q to the same smog test only shop for a number of years. Each time the Asian technician tells me that it did not pass the test, but that he would get it to pass, (and he does it). I am the original owner and the engine/smog equipment has not been modified. I recently had the engine properly tuned up by a respected garage. I ask him what causes the test failure. He mumbles in a thick accent that the engine might not have been warmed up enough on the way to the shop, or that the catalytic converter may not be working properly.( no specifics) BTW, the rig has only some 11 thousand original miles
I wonder if others have had similar experiences with smog testing on the same E-450 engine.
IMO, it's quite possible that your smog tech is telling you the truth and doing you a favor. (IMO, doing nothing illegal) With such low miles in a stock system, it's unlikely that anything is significantly worn out or malfunctioning. Is your "check engine" light on? If so, . . . . . automatic fail at a "test only" station in California.
Catalytic converters/oxygen sensors MUST be warmed up regularly or they can be poisoned with unburned hydrocarbons, sulfur, and oxides of nitrogen and lose efficiency. (enough to make the vehicle fail) The best way, IMO, to purge the converter is to use premium or mid grade fuel, then do a long, sustained, high RPM pull up a steep grade just prior to the smog test. 10 miles or so if you can find the right location. Bring it in hot, and test it hot. IMO, that's your best bet to pass with flying colors.
Chum lee
