California EPA Proposed Certification Procedure for SPCN

[aa909]

was doing a google search on requirements for my upcoming CHP and BAR inspections and I stumbled on the following California EPA Air Resource Board proposal printed on October 4, 2011:

http://www.arb.ca.gov/regact/2011/spcn11/spcnisor.pdf

First, I apologize if this is old news, but it was definitely new to me. let me also say I have not read the entire 30 pages but the following was very interesting:

"The California Air Resources Board (ARB or the Board) staff is proposing optional certification regulations and procedures for new light-duty engines for use in specially constructed vehicles (SPCNSs, such as kit cars). The proposed regulations and procedures would create a path for manufacturers to certify engine packages, that when placed into an SPCNS, would meet new vehicle emission standards, and enable the vehicle to meet Smog Check requirements."

it goes on to say that they do not plan to revoke the SB-100 500/yr exemption, but towards the end they lay out the various OBD II parameters, catalytic converter requirements, emission limits etc, that would allow registration once the "first 500 exemptions are awarded".

They also go on to talk about the pollution that SPCN emit citing that the emissions are 200X more in a 30 mile excursion than new vehicles. I smell a rat!

Now with the caveat that I didn't pour over this with a fine tooth comb, my personal take is the EPA hates our cars and under the thin veil of this "proposal" they want to establish an "alternative" route for registering SPCN vehicles. I can only imagine once this "new route" is establish it will be with short order they move aggressively to eliminate the SB-100's and will cite this "alternate" path as a reasonable option.

Would like to hear your thoughts on how you think this plays out.
I've already got my SB100 and will work fast to clear CHP and BAR before March to avoid any ridiculous outcome of the EPA effort, sheesh

Art

[aa909]

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION

"Staff’s proposed certification regulations and procedures will allow manufacturers to certify engines for use in light-duty SPCNSs and provide hobbyists low-emission options when it comes to choosing an engine. The proposed regulations and procedures provide the necessary flexibility needed for the unique characteristics of SPCNSs, while ensuring new SPCNSs are as low-emitting as new production vehicles. Staff recommends the Board adopt the following, which incorporate the proposal:
1. Title13,Division3,Chapter1,Article1.5:Light-DutyEnginePackagesforUse in Light-Duty Specially Constructed Vehicles, and
2. CaliforniaCertificationProceduresforLight-DutyEnginePackagesforUsein Light-Duty Specially Constructed Vehicles for 2012 and Subsequent Model Years"

[Cashburn]

The intent I believe is to find a way to encourage builders to embrace some of the new engines, like the GM E-Rod series: http://www.semasan.com/semaga/images/DF_0110.pdf

[aa909]

Hi Jay

I think you're 100% right, but the overall intention isn't what concerns me it's the likelihood that increased regulation will limit choice and ultimately increase costs for builders and prices for consumers. At the end of the day these cars are driven a few thousand miles a year (if that) and aren't harming anyone.

along those lines, I just emailed Brian because it seems even with an SB-100 exemption I will need a PCV valve and closed crankcase set up to pass the California BAR visual inspection. as of now the VMS 427X doesn't have that set up so let's connect tomorrow if you have time to talk about a quick and simple fix to pass the visual inspection

Art

[Sidekick]

The simple fix is a PCV valve. That line was drawn in the sand years ago.

As far as expense...I believe it will become cheaper because the use of Shelby etc. blocks or complete Shelby or Pond engines will become illegal, so the cheaper EPA engines will become more popular and spark development in that area. ( not that I don't appreciate my roush 427.)

[tcrist]

The PCV will go into one valve cover with the hose going to the base of the carb.

If you have a breather on the other valve cover or oil filler tube, you will need to get one of those closed breathers and run a hose from it to the base of your carb breather.

I just went through this a few months ago.

[Cashburn]

Art
I can send it for you. Extremely simple.

[aa909]

thanks Jay, spoke to Brian this morning, he's sending me what I need to pass BAR.

[Cashburn]

Originally Posted by aa909

thanks Jay, spoke to Brian this morning, he's sending me what I need to pass BAR.

I know, I get to box it up and ship. Letting some sealer dry on a grommet.

[aa909]

Thanks Jay, saw that Fed Ex tracking come through. I'm scheduled with CHP in 2 weeks and BAR thereafter so should go smoothly with the parts you're sending.

[cgwitt]

I formed a LLC in another state and license my ride there. I knew this was coming based on my conversations with "friends" within the CA DMV. It is often referred to as: CA needs MONEY anyway they can get it.
I wonder what is next?

[Rick Parker]

I saw a show several months ago showing the prodeure of certifying the engine (GM's spec engine and electronics) which was done by the So Cal Speed Shop in conjunction with the powers that be for California.

[aa909]

Hi Rick, can you elaborate on the show you saw? what was the basis of it, to show how to certify an engine for a hot rod under the new proposed emission limits?

I personally think the days of putting whatever engine you want in these cars in California are numbered.