I have a 1987 Grand National. It has 19,200 original miles on it. It was stored in my garage for 11 years and was taken out in November. Smogged it for the first time and it failed test at idle but passed crusing test. Technision recommended replacing catalitic converter. Second test, failed and produced even more emissions. Then they recommended a major tune up. Replacing plugs, air filter and wires. Third test, failed the idle test barely and passed cruising. What do you think it is? Any help would be appriciated. Thanks!
Can you give me some #s hc,co,co2,nox.. What state are you in I live in CA so I go through this every other year.You can send direct to save space on the list. turboscott@cox.net
Samantha,
Several possible solutions were posted to the mailing list and not here (as several people on the mailing list [which receive copies of posts to this bulletin board] still do not understand how to post to the bulletin board. Here is my solution:
- First - Run a can of Top Engine Cleaner through the motor,
- Change oil & filter - A Biggie!,
- Change O2 sensor,
- Change air filter (already done),
- Change spark plugs (already done),
- Clean fuel injectors,
- Use an emissions chip (EPROM),
- Change fuel filter, and
- possibly have a mechanic verify the PCV and EGR valves.
See www.gnttype.org - Technical|maintenance section for details on performing the above.
If the car still fails (with the new catalytic converter), you have a flakey sensor on the car or a serios mechanical problem. However, I would bet if you do everything listed above, you have a 99.9% chance of passing.
Scott Simpson
Samantha,
As state by Scott Dahlheimer (Wh1scott), the results of your emissions test would be helpful in diagnosing your emissions problems. Also, does your car have a stock EGR valve on it? or an aftermarket one? Like Scott D., I too live in CA. My car has always passed. You can email any emissions questions to me at:
joseph_cheung@dca.ca.gov
I dont know I just pay extra and the car always passes I dont know but it seems to be a trend now since I have started driving not one car has failed inspection