1976 914, VW Turbo diesel swap, California smog needed? Options

[jeffdon]

The topic line says it all.

[TurboWalt]

Vehicles that qualify for an exemption from smog check:
"Diesel powered 1997 year model and older or with a Gross Vehicle Weight rating (GVWR) of more than 14,000 lbs"

In order to make that work for you would most likely require an appointment with the smog "refree". They would verify that you indeed have a diesel. The kicker is whether or not the ref just say's "yep it's a diesel" and sends you on your way. Or if they decide to needle you and check that every single emission related component required for your donor engine is there. They know that the diesel will be exempt from further inspection so I don't know how tough they are on the diesel swaps. On the petrol swaps they need to do a good job so future smog checks can be performed at a regular vs referee station. One solid rule regarding engine swaps in CA, your donor engine must be from the same model year or newer than your chassis. Once your good with the referee, DMV will change the fuel on your title (no more smog checks).