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Long-tube headers and C.A.R.B.

4.9K views 16 replies 11 participants last post by  1320  
#1 ·
Searching the DC database of posts, one finds that no long-tube header is C.A.R.B. compliant. (or so I've read)

What is it, physically, about a long-tube header that makes it impossible for the aftermarket manufacturers to configure these pipes so that all the emissions stuff can continue to function more or less as intended?

I apologize in advance if I've got any facts wrong. If anybody can shed some light on this subject, I'm sure that more than a few folks here on DC would be interested to know. Thanks!
 
#2 ·
It relocates the CATs, which is a big no no.
 
#3 ·
Hey thanks. So does this mean that with long-tube headers the catalytic converters are pushed back too far from the exhaust manifold to do their full job of roasting exhaust emissions? I may not understand.

I mean, you can get long-tube headers with CATs and high-flow CATs, so I'm just wondering why these become "not good enough" after a long-tube install.

It would be great to find a way to make the almighty long-tube do its horsepower thing while still gliding through an emissions test.
 
#4 ·
The problem is profit JBA and BB made LT "Snake Pit" headers for the C5 but they didn't sell enough volume so they did not make a set for the C6. California is tough on certification. Technically most aftermarket Air Induction Systems are not legal in California.

Most people are looking for max performance and take their chances with LTs rather than go for the "shortys". If Properly tuned most Long Tubes with Cats will pass the sniffer tests in warm weather but many have a problem "lighting" the cats in cold weather because of the greater distance from the engine. Ceramic coating helps some but most tune out the rear sensor to prevent throwing CELs,

:cheers:
 
#7 ·
Some states you can get by the visual portion of the inspection because they dont know what they are looking at to begin with. :laughing:
 
#8 ·
I don't understand this at all.

You have converters and the car will pass their test so what is the problem? What is more perplexing to me is why you can't change an air intake: that is just nuts. I suppose they see it as more air means more gas being burned but DO NOT see that the much leaner air fuel ratio and extra timing from the tune give you a more efficient unit.

It make no sense but what in government does?
 
#9 ·
Long -tube headers and C.A.R.B.

In Calif where I live All most anything you do to air intake or exhaust or to make more HP. Is allmost against the law in this f------ state. Beleve me I'am trying to do 550 or 600 hp on my 06Zo6 evensome superchargers are not carb legal. So far AA corvette are the only lead I got that are carb cerafied. This state is trying to clean the wroud of smog and it is not going to happen/:spanked: :nuts:
 
#10 ·
Carb

Let me break this down for you: the California Air Resources Board or CARB is not interested in how much gas you are burning, that is were CAFE is supposed to come in to govern gas mileage efficiency.

So if they are supposed to be interested in what comes out of your tailpipe why all the fuss about legality with changing/altering parts? To answer that question you need to ask yourself what difference does it really make if you change an intake, exhaust, heads, headers, etc if your tailpipe emissions are still clean?

Well unless that performance part you purchased has a CARB OE# (order exemption or exemption order I can never remember which it is) the state is loosing thousands in parts certification funds. Those CARB OE numbers are nothing more than a scam to generate more revenue from performance part manufactures. Sound familiar? Red light cameras, outrageous DMV reg fees, etc. Why we allow the state under our hoods and not keep them to only a tailpipe test blows me away.

Then again I did not vote for any of the tax crazy left wing soccer moms in the state legislator who have no trouble supporting laws that slowly kill performance vehicles in this state. Sorry for the rant. I need to get the hell out of this sinking ship of a state. Hey, I doubt they will check my vehicle emissions in Mexico! Hasta luego =)
 
#11 ·
Robo,

Very interesting and thought provoking post for sure.

I think that revenue does drive a lot of things: no question. From what I understand here in PA your two largest problems are freighters that idle forever and they have to be the dirtiest things going and aircraft.

It is a fact: proven by MD sniffers, that a tuned car with bolt ons is cleaner, much cleaner, then a stock one - - as such, you are correct it is about the money.

I was once told that you sell your soul if you go into politics as "prostitutes are honest about it all and up front but the politician screws everyone while smiling in their faces." And I believe it literally and metaphorically.

Sad ain't it?
 
#12 ·
I forgot, here in PA some counties have emissions and some don't. I live in Adams (Gettysburg area) and we have NO test but must have a visual for converters.

the counties that test do NO visual and only a gas cap test and a CEL test and then charge you $36 - - it is all just bull$hit.
 
#13 ·
:agree: :agree:
One day they'll find out that making us use cats is as stupid of an idea as when, in the 70's ,they decided to dump all the used tires into the ocean to make a home for the coral and help form a new reef.....idiots...now those tires are disentegrating and giving off tons of chemicals into the waters and it's costing millions for removal. The only vehicles that need cats and emissions controls are those in constant use or heavy duty use, such as Patrol cars,taxis,mail trucks,UPS trucks, Fed Ex trucks,heavy machinery,well...you get the picture.All the cats do is hurt gas mileage and cut HP. :down:
 
#14 ·
Long -tube headers and CARB.

Sorry RoBo1219 All I know is when they look under hood or tailpipe emissions dont pass they f--- you in CA. I dont know goverment and laws or break downs .All I know is you better pass smog or you are f----- How do you like that F------ Aragment.:nuts: :nuts: :nuts: