My OBDI conversion PCM is programmed with my VIN.

Up here our e-test (every 2 years) is a sniffer, so they don't plug into the computer. All they do is look for a functioning SES light, and verify that it is not "on", and then perform the sniffer on a chassis dyno.

I'm not familiar with the test procedures in the various states, but I know some do a sniffer test, whereas other states will "plug-in" to an OBDII car to check for faults, readiness indicators, etc.

You need to find out what the exact testing procedure is in CA. If they plug-in, you're stuck with OBDII (which is not really a bad thing).

You could get an OBDI conversion PCM, and then have your OBDII PCM programmed specifically for the e-test. Then, a few days before your e-test, swap in the OBDII PCM with the conservative tune (drive around a bit - don't go into the test while the PCM is still "learning"). I know things are pretty strict in CA, so that might be a way to deal with it.

 

Thanks Dave. It is a plug-in, as far as I remember. I may try having an obd1 to swap in like you said. Don't know if it's worth the extra cost and hassle though.

 

I would say probably not. But despite saying that, that's basically what i've done, except I haven't used the OBDII PCM. I haven't actually had to take an e-test with my current setup - that comes this summer. If it doesn't pass, I could get a custom emissions tune for the OBDII PCM, or I could use my laptop + cable to flash the OBDI PCM with an emissions tune. Either way, I'll cross that bridge when (and if) I come to it.

A lot of guys like the plug-in test. Some states (apparently) just do a visual check and then plug-in to the OBDII. There are guys with hollowed-out cats (to pass the visual) and wicked cams that can pass e-tests simply because they have a well-programmed OBDII PCM, and don't have to pass a sniffer test.