I'm going to be buying SLP headers for my car. My friend told me to not bother with A.I.R. and just to put it out. I have an '85 Z28 LG4. Will this actually affect anything?

 

In Mass with 1984 or newer vehicles, you are required to pass an emissions test ( http://www.vehicletest.state.ma.us/generalinfo.html ) and possibly a visual (I think it depends on the garage...). If they do a visual, you will fail if they do not see the A.I.R. tubes. So unless you have someone that can get you a sticker, you will probably have to get the headers with A.I.R.

This is why I'm glad I have an 82 and got the headers without A.I.R. and got rid of all that other engine-bay-cluttering smog equiptment

 

Nobody is going to flunk you on a visual in MA, at least not around our area. They don't even pop the hood most of the time.

Do a search on the air. My understanding is that it's mainly designed to help reduce hydrocarbons when the engine is cold. Once you're up to temperature, I don't think it does squat. So just don't inspect the car unless it's up to temp.

 

The AIR system is designed to add air to the exhaust to help burn unburned fuel in the exhaust. This reduces tailpipe hydrocarbons and it also heats up the cat quicker. The catalytic converter doesn't work 100% until it is up to operating temperature. Because the emissions are checked on a vehicle that is already at operating temperature your car will not fail with it removed. Take it out, throw it in the trash, and change your spark plugs in minutes on the passenger side. Remove the AIR pump while you are at it. I agree with Jim85IROC, noone in MA is going to lift the hood to make sure all your stuff is there. I never do.