converter question

[mcindallas]

Excuse my lack of knowledge but I need to install exhaust on my 86 shortbed. Has nothing beyond manifolds. Will it fail inspection without catalytic converters? Does my truck require them? I bought it this way but if i don't need the cats then that would reduce the cost.

thanks

Mike
Dallas, Tx

[roundedline]

Pretty much everything after 1975 requires catalytic converter for emmision testing.  Some places I have heard will not pass unless it has the factory configuration.  ie no dual conversion.  The best thing to do is check with the emissions office to see what it required.

Chris Lucas
www.73-87chevytrucks.com
www.captkaoscustoms.com
Project Su
Jimmy 2WD Project

[Rickster]

When the Ole Blue Gosse was inspected in January the boy said that everything had to be in place as far as emissions is concered.  Then he said the law did not say the parts had to work.  Here in NC we no longer have to have emissions test just safety.  '96 and laters have to have an OBD check.

He went on to say that there are a couple of holes in the converter, and it should be replaced to get the back pressure correct.  Anyone agree that the exhaust should have have some amount of back pressure on a stock vehicle?

The prices for new converters for a '79 w/ 250 range from $69 to $139.  Some one told me the diference is the amount of platinum on the ceramic.  Any thoughts?

[Z28 c10]

Depending on the driving you do, ie highway where you want more horsepower or low speed light to light where you want more torque, backpressure can be good. It can help your top end by opening the exhaust but your peak usable torque, the grunt, will be moved up higher in the powerband.

 JayTater

 Z28 C10

[cruppert77]

Also in the dallas area, Once your truck is 25yrs old, the inspection is just for safty stuff. Basicly, if it came with it ,you should have it, but nobodys lookig for them. I've never even see them look under a car that is older than the 25yr limit. Just a safty check. I dont think those inspectors know what those cars and trucks came with. Some of them are so young that they haven't seen carberators

Edited by: cruppert77 at: 7/17/06 6:45 pm