Hey guys, I know this subject was probably beaten to death, but when I searched for it there was not a lot of info. I checked the "cats in Ontario" thread and it was not what I was looking for. Regardless, I got my emissions test today and I passed everything on the curb idle test but I failed the ASM2525 Test. I scored 142 (max 55) on the HC ppm and 0.81 (max 0.31) on the CO%. Now my question is what can be the problem? Should I get a diagnostics on it?

My car is a 88 Camaro Iroc-z 5.7 350 V8. (Basically missed being exempted by 1 year. The car is in good shape and has relatively low mileage (60,000 km).

Any help and ideas would be greatly appreciated.

I thank you guys in advance for your help.

Did you try that bottle of "pass test" stuff from Canadian Tire? I've never used it myself, but others have sworn by it. Others have also said they get the oil changed before they go. Again, haven't done it myself cause all my cars have passed without much effort - except my TransAm because I had *cough cough* lost *cough cough* the EGR valve when I replaced the intake manifold on mine.

Are you going there cold? Before you go get the test done get the engine nice and warm.

That's the two easiest. After that your looking at tune-ups or a new cat - is it still the original one? Cause the new ones are FAR better than the old clunkers. Smaller too!

That pass stuff is just methyl hydrate, you can buy a big bottle for 2.49 at Canadian Tire. My car has a brand new cat, and exhaust all the way back, I had a 16/60 HC, and .00 for CO2. Plugs, wires, cap, rotor, again, normal tune up stuff will help you in the end.

denatured alcohol will pass anyone. And make sure the engine and exhaust are hot

Thanks guys!!

I ran the car for about 30 mins and drove it on the highway. It was warm. I also changed the filter yesterday. I will have to try that stuff from Canadian Tire. Hope that works!!!

Also, I was wondering if anyone knows if there is a limit for the amount of tests allowed???

I think you get 3 tests. If you're nice you can get the tech to run the test in 'training mode' so it won't count against you. Test the car HOT. Go to a test place near the highway and drive it fast for 20 minutes at least, leave it running when you get there and get it on the rollers ASAP. It makes a huge difference.
Your issue is unburnt fuel (HC) getting out. Do you need plugs etc? Misfire maybe? Air pump working properly?

The CTC stuff is garbage, didn't do squat for me.

I e-tested my car this week and failed as well, Had to replace the air pump.
$285 for the pump, but soon as they changed it dropped and passed easy.
I don't believe the mechnic in a can, just make sure it's hot before going on the rollers.

The CO content is directly tied to the air fuel ratio. CO is lowest when the cruise AFR is correct (closed loop)
High HC+ high CO + Low NOX on the cruise test indicates the AFR is too rich at cruise.

Lazy O2 sensor. TPS sensor, map sensor. or connections.

Old, fuel contaminated engine oil. Stop and go city driving. Change the oil.

Cruising around at a constant RPM is probably the worst idea. Like above, change the oil, get some good gas, and go have a really really fun drive.....

But because you shouldnt speed, just use the first two gears. Drive for about 20 mins spiritedly, and it should be good.

I find that the tests they run are very inconsistent.... I dont know why. How can a car fail so horribly, and pass 2 days down the road with no changes??? We will never know.