[Shotimes] Emissions Test ??? Help !!

[Alan Fanning]

The Sept. issue of Popular Mechanics has an article on passing emissions
tests. In summary:

High HC (hydrocarbons) results from unburned fuel being pumped into the
exhaust. Misfiring, due to one of the following, is the likely cause:
-   an ignition problem (plugs, wires, etc)
-   internal engine failure (valves, rings, head gaskets...)
-   vacuum leak
-   fuel delivery issues (injectors)
Note: although it sounds odd, the engine could be running either too lean
_or_ too rich.

NOx problems are typically the result of EGR system issues, catalytic
converter no longer working up to snuff, or heavy carbon deposits in the
combustion chamber or on the backs of intake valves. The latter can,
apparently, interfere with the swirl pattern of the incoming mixture and
prevent it from burning evenly. Another thing mentioned is too much heat. Is
the engine running hot? They say that moisture laden air can reduce Nox by
30%, so getting the smog test on a rainy day may pay off.

    Alan


Shaun & Meggen Livermore wrote:

> The actual readings are as follows:
> 
> HC  1.7699   Limit 0.8000
> CO  5.5367   Limit 15.0000
> NOx 3.5380   Limit 2.0000
> 
> 
> Not sure if this explains what is wrong, but I need to pass this damn
> think!
> 
> Thanks a lot.