Gross Polluter

[TheWhopper]

Earlier this year I purchased a 1991 Toyota Corolla...as a daily driver.

When I finally gotten around to having it smog checked myself, I come to find out the car grossly failed the test. So bad that the previous owner likely did a "magic-smog". I'm looking in to legal action but I'm also curious to know what it would take to repair it myself. I'm familiar with working on integras/civics so I'm willing to try almost anything but rebuild/swap out the motor. From what I understand, troubleshooting emissions can be a pain.



The main problem I'm having is with the NO(PPM)

At 15 mph it measured at 2909 ppm
At 25 mph it measured at 1961 ppm

I don't know if my car is running real lean because of timing, but if it's this high I don't think it's because of that and/or the catalytic converter. No check engine light either.

What do you guys think?


UPDATE 12/17
Haven't had a chance to work on the Corolla since I've been working on my Mitsubishi Endeavor. Hopefully, I can start on it this weekend. Here is a video confirming the check engine light is working but not throwing a code even though my emissions are horrific.

[SuperRA]

After all the basics are checked like timing, tune up, etc, check the EGR system as it's primary function is to reduce NO emissions.

[tashirosgt]

Also make sure the engine check light actually works. That will be revealed if you do the timing procedure since you jumper connections that should turn it on.

[ayang951]

you know what, i had the same problem, the check engine light worked for me, but it didnt tell me that the cat was bad.... i replaced it and it drives like new... also did awesome on the test... but i also took the egr and etc off, cleaned them with carb cleaner and put them all back in as well with a nice can of sea foam and new oil before i did the test...