Reinstalling emissions system

[jumpkickyergunt]

The previous owner tore everything out so I have to start from scratch. I can see the main components in the service manual, but I guess I'm at a loss as to what hoses should be purchased and at this point I can't tell what the heck is going on or where to start. It's a mess. 79 k10. I'll get some pictures posted up in a little while.

[fitz]

What motor?

[jumpkickyergunt]

350

[Irish_Alley]

do you have any stickers on the radiator support?

[jumpkickyergunt]

Yes I see the emissions hose routing map. I'm missing a lot of that.

[Dr_Snooz]

Well here's a thread title you don't see very often! Why are you doing this and what state are you in?

I'll assume it's for a smog test. I can speak to CA, which has the most aggressive (or regressive, depending on your perspective) smog tests in the nation. Your state may be different, so do your due diligence.

Your truck should have a sticker on the rad support or the air cleaner showing all the smog components that are supposed to be there. These will be easily identifiable items like EGR valves, catalytic converters, AIR pumps, etc. It won't be obscure stuff like valve angles or cam lobe pitches. All you have to do is find the sticker and re-install whatever is listed on it.

In CA, at least, the tech is only looking to see that those components are there and that they appear to be working. The tech doesn't ensure that the components actually work. That's the job of the tailpipe sniffer test. What I'm saying is that you don't need to sweat it too much. The tech isn't going to know any more about it than you do, and most likely, he'll know a lot less. As long as you blow clean on the sniffer, you'll be fine.

Personally, I recommend that the smog components work. They do help to extend engine life by preventing pinging, keeping crankcase oil clean and reducing the bad smells coming from the tailpipe. At the same time, I've seen enough people stuck without a way to get to work because of a stupid smog test, so you have to find a balance.

Get a list of the components you need and we can help you get them installed and working properly.

I should also mention that CA has a requirement that aftermarket upgrades be approved by the CA Air Resources Board (CARB) and that they bear a sticker showing that approval. I've sneaked unapproved parts through before, but they were well hidden under stock-appearing stuff. If you have a lot of wild upgrades under the hood, it's possible those could become an issue in a routine smog test. I haven't seen it happen personally, but it's possible.

I should also mention too, please, please, please, PLEASE, do NOT take the truck to a garage and ask them to sort out the mess. That's just a one-way ticket to major problems.

[jumpkickyergunt]

Because it's better for the engine and environment. I'm in Colorado and have already passed my emissions test. I see zero benefit in removing the emissions. The motor was designed to operate in a certain way so I don't know why the PO assumed he new what was best for the truck over GM  considering how poorly it was maintained. Like I'd trust that guy. It doesn't even have the egr connected. HmAt risk of offending the more experienced mechanics here, I find it irresponsible.

[Irish_Alley]

the only reason gm put emissions stuff on their engines is cause of the EPA saying they have to.

[Captkaos]

Take VW diesels for example...   No emmisions while tests, 40x as much when not.
GM put emissions stuff on because of regulation not because it made it run better, If you passed emissions without it there wouldn't be a benefit adding it.  It is also going to cost a lot if you are missing the pieces in a strict area..

[jumpkickyergunt]

I'm not arguing about this. I'll figure it out myself and we can continue onwards. Thank you anyways.