So I got an '89 Toy P/U with an '85 4.3 L Chevy V6 and a quadrajet carb....not passing emissions. Does anyone have any thoughts on how to lower emissions a few %?

 

Which emission are you failing for?

 

My bad...Washington.

 

No, what type of emission? NO, CO, etc.

 

regular tailpipe emissions, carbon monoxide, etc...

 

Ok, on your emissions print out, they break down the % and the types of emissions...

that's what we need to know.

For example:

NO: 2.25PPM

 

Seeing as how I do not have that print out, are there general tips/tricks for reducing emissions. The carb has already been tweeked. Not sure what else would help. redline fuel system cleaner, maf sensor clean...? Is there a way to test to see if cat is blown without removing it? Probably not, but thought I would ask.

 

Tweeking the carb could be part of the problem. You may want to have the O2 sensor tested also. Running rich can contribute to failed emissions, and possibly a failed cat over time.

What type of cat do you have on there? Is it the original cat from Toyota, or did you use one from Chev?

You can try a product that will clean the combustion chamber, but that probably wont get to the root cause of the problem. Are you pretty handy with motors? If not, then you may have to have this problem diagnosed by a professional. There are just too many variables, and the last thing we want to do is send you on a wild goose chase.

 

The cat is original toyota, and I am good with working on ford engines and partial toyota, so this chevy shouldn't be a prob. I guess its just gonna have to be trial and error time. The only other thing I can think of is to overhaul the valves and piston chambers. Thats easy enough. I love old engines that you only need to take out a few bolts and springs and the thing almost just falls apart. Thanks for the insight...

 

Keep us posted.

 

Well, in Washington you could fail on:
HC this is hydrocarbons=unburned fuel
CO This is carbonmonoxide
CO2 carbonDioxide=text for nonleaking exhast

Is it a stock 4.3? out of what (and the year)
What is the carb from?
Camshaft stock to engine or aftermarket
Emmissions stuff hooked up to the 4.3? O2 sensor installed and working with a GM computer?

 

You might check your PCV valve, too. My Honda failed a couple years ago just because of that $2.00 part!