You might try it, but IIRC you'd need it running & roadworthy for the DMV safety inspection to get it back registered.
But if DMV in CA or other state still has it on the computer as a `76, then it may not work - may take some convincing.
If Kent did it, then chat with him.
Since the 76 MY 914s are a unique oddity - kinda the reverse of an early release of a model year, it would be great if California's DMV & CARB would accept the early YOM in 1975 as the definitive year relative to emissions requirements & the smog test waiver for `75 & earlier vehicles.
Here's what the DMV website says:
"Does my vehicle qualify for a smog exemption?
Smog inspections are required unless your vehicle is:
Gasoline powered 1975 year model or older Diesel powered 1997 year model and older or with a Gross Vehicle Weight rating (GVWR) of more than 14,000 lbs
Electric
Natural gas powered with a GVWR rating of more than 14,000 lbs.
Motorcycle"
> Source:
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/detail/vr/smogfaqBut then Cal-BAr who runs the Smog Check program for CARB says this:
"5. My 1976 model-year vehicle was built in 1975. Why isn't it exempt from Smog Check?
The Smog Check exemption is based on the model-year of the vehicle, not the date of manufacture. Accordingly, a 1976 model-year vehicle is not exempt."
> Source:
https://www.bar.ca.gov/FormsPubs/Q&As_S....html#Question5I can't find my link to the actual CA law wording, but you can search it on any CA State Law database, but IIRC it also says 76 MY - not YOM based, as above.
Also, there was legislation in the CA State Assembly &/or State Senate which would move the pre-1976 Smog Test Requirement ahead by a few years (up to +/- 1985 IIRC), but I don't know it's current status.
Good Luck!
Tom
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