jordeezy

OK, I have been trying to get my car to pass smog here in California. My HC and CO levels are good, but my NOx levels are all over the place.

Here are my numbers from the 2x I have gone.

Test 1
15mph - FAIL
%CO2 13.3
%O2 1.8
HC Max 130, Meas 40
CO Max 0.81, Meas 0.03
NO Max 1116, Meas 1405

25mph - PASS
%CO2 14.9
%O2 0.0
HC Max 105, Meas 30
CO Max 0.61, Meas 0.02
NO Max 946, Meas 786

Test 2
15mph - PASS
%CO2 13.4
%O2 2.4
HC Max 130, Meas 74
CO Max 0.81, Meas 0.00
NO Max 1116, Meas 952

25mph - FAIL
%CO2 14.9
%O2 0.3
HC Max 105, Meas 30
CO Max 0.61, Meas 0.01
NO Max 946, Meas 1048

After my first test, the tech recommended I change my EGR valve, which I did. I also checked for vacuum TO the EGR solenoid, which was ok. I didn't check between the solenoid and the valve though-which I will do today. Well as you can see, swapping out the valve helped my low speed NOx leves but my high speed NOx levels are just slightly too high.

I also noticed my SES light coming on and off from time to time, which I am assuming is a Code 32 as this 3g.org tech article shows (https://www.thirdgen.org/egrdiagnose)

Well, thats all the background info for my problem, so here's my question. This weekend, I think I will clean out or replace all the EGR related vacuum lines. Would you guys recommend I swap out my EGR solenoid as well? Also, the tech article says to use a rifle cleaning brush to clean out the passage ways of carbon. Any specific caliber brush work for you guys? Thanks in advance... I am looking forward to getting all this smog bs outta the way, so I can finally get some real tags for my car (still a temp for the last couple months).

jordeezy

Just got back from looking at the car, after careful inspection, I found a crack in one of the vacuum lines. I'm thinking that's probably the problem, I'm gonna replace it and see what happens. Everyone's input on my problem is still welcome!

Air_Adam

Check the code, see whats coming up. Don't just assume its a code 32 - find out. High NOx is caused by high combustion chamber temps. May be an EGR problem, but it could possibly be something else too. Check the code first and see what it is. It might help you solve the problem.

jordeezy

This might be a dumb question, but what equipment do I need to check for codes?

SpitotRs305

a paper clip if you dont have one call mcgyver

KrisW

iTrader: (5)

I had a bad nox reading in CA when my converter was starting to plug up...

jordeezy

Already replaced my cat... Pretty sure its an EGR problem, I replaced that vacuum line, and I tried the car out tonight, no SES light. Hopefully that was the problem.

Air_Adam

Even if the light is now off, you can still pull the code that was there when the light was on. It saves it in the computer. Check the code.

jordeezy

How do I do that? Do I need some sort of scanner? Is there a link on how to check for codes?

327_TPI_77_Maro

iTrader: (8)

Paper clip buddy, paper clip. Stick paper clip in A&B slots on your car's ALDL connector. turn key on. It will flash 12 at you 3 times (flash pause flash flash), then any codes.

jordeezy

thanks, i thought the other dude was joking when he said paper clip, then mcguyver. haha.

Air_Adam

Nope, he was exactly right - BTW, if that makes him McGyver, then I'm f^*king Batman, lol

jordeezy

Well, took the T/A in for smog today... THIRD TIMES A CHARM!!! Finally passed, and just in time since my temp registration expires today. Haha.

Anyhow, I checked for codes, and it was in fact a Code 32. Haven't gotten the SES lamp since I swapped out that vacuum line though, so I think everything is all good now. Thanks again for all your help!

Air_Adam

Code 32 is an EGR code - just for the record.