Vortech with extras still CARB approved?
Vortech with extras still CARB approved?
I'm getting installed a Vortech tuner kit with Walbro fuel pump, 600cc injectors, stage 0 fuel return, and going to tune with Uprev. The question is, I know the Vortech complete kit is CARB approved, but does adding the extras I have planned effect passing smog test in California? I plan on moving in about a year or less.
Passing the sniffer depends on your tune and what (if any) cats you're running. I don't know what fuel return setup you've got, but it will likely raise flags on a visual inspection.
Thanks for the feedback, bigc. I need a little more of your time, if you don't mind...
I'm not too worried about the tune. And I'm going to run stock cats for now. However, you got me nervous about the "visual inspection." I've got the CJ Motorsport Stage 0 fuel return and it came with a red Aeromotive regulator. So, what does the visual inspection do? If they see a engine mod, they can fail you for the smog test? I moved from Cali almost 8 years ago, I don't remember having to get a visual inspection, it's just been the sniffer tests were they stick the sensor in the exhaust and rev it up. How is the smog test done these days?
I'm not too worried about the tune. And I'm going to run stock cats for now. However, you got me nervous about the "visual inspection." I've got the CJ Motorsport Stage 0 fuel return and it came with a red Aeromotive regulator. So, what does the visual inspection do? If they see a engine mod, they can fail you for the smog test? I moved from Cali almost 8 years ago, I don't remember having to get a visual inspection, it's just been the sniffer tests were they stick the sensor in the exhaust and rev it up. How is the smog test done these days?
They can if they are sticklers. If you have mods, they are supposed to have CARB number. A bright red fuel regulator just screams 'I'm modded'. I'd tuck that bish as far down behind your plenum as possible.
Other Cali folks, please chime in on your smog check experiences as well. Thanks.
I can give you a WHOLE lot of specific details on this actually .. If you dont have the full kit, your kit is not smog legal. If you modify the kit in ANY way, it will not pass visual.
Part number of the kit is listed here:
http://arb.ca.gov/msprog/aftermkt/de...o/D-213-27.pdf
It's the full kit. Also, even though your supercharger will come with a carb metal plate on it, it's not really legal due to the fact that you have a tuner kit.
Since you have a 07 coupe just like me, you need the D-213-27 plate stamped on your supercharger.
Reason why I know so much is because it took me about 5 weeks and 3 trips to the state ref to pass
Technically you can "pass" smog with the right tune and if the tech dont look thoroughly enough. But if you get your hood popped and sent to state ref like me, it may cost you a bit of money, time in court, and a big headache.
just fyi
Part number of the kit is listed here:
http://arb.ca.gov/msprog/aftermkt/de...o/D-213-27.pdf
It's the full kit. Also, even though your supercharger will come with a carb metal plate on it, it's not really legal due to the fact that you have a tuner kit.
Since you have a 07 coupe just like me, you need the D-213-27 plate stamped on your supercharger.
Reason why I know so much is because it took me about 5 weeks and 3 trips to the state ref to pass

Technically you can "pass" smog with the right tune and if the tech dont look thoroughly enough. But if you get your hood popped and sent to state ref like me, it may cost you a bit of money, time in court, and a big headache.
just fyi
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bokchilo, great info, thanks! I'm going to need a "DIY" about the below, please share
WTF?! Cops will pull you over and check under your hood? That ain't right... wouldn't they need a warrant for that or something? Does that happen often? When you guys said "visual inspection" I thought you meant by the tech doing the smog test, not the cops
So, I've got a blower with the CARB plate on it, I should be good there. All the other parts are internal; injectors, fuel pump, etc. are out of sight. The only other thing is the bright red fuel regulator for the return system. If I tuck that away somewhere, and/or try to swap it for a black one, do you think that improves my chances?
So, I've got a blower with the CARB plate on it, I should be good there. All the other parts are internal; injectors, fuel pump, etc. are out of sight. The only other thing is the bright red fuel regulator for the return system. If I tuck that away somewhere, and/or try to swap it for a black one, do you think that improves my chances?
I dont really know alot about Cali but, If youre military or know someone that could sponsor you onto an installation, couldnt you get it done there at the auto hobby shop? Thats where I get all my inspections for alot less and theyre not as ****...please dont flame me Im not in Cali
Cops in CA can make up any excuse to stop a car and pop your hood, I have been pulled over 3 times (twice with the Vortech) but that CARB sticker saved me, when I did add extra upgrades to the kit I would make sure they were hidden which is why I did not have a fuel return system as that regulator just stood right out.
The other time was was with the TT kit but nothing is visible from the engine bay.
The other time was was with the TT kit but nothing is visible from the engine bay.








