4 replies to this topic

[GusRox]

Every year at the MOT I have the same hokey-cokey regarding emissions.

 

First, the examiner always insists that my Mini should have a cat (it shouldn't, as far as I am aware - DVLA says it was first used approx Aug 92 and it's a Mini City, 998 I believe.  Original engine, no mods) and so they always put it through a Cat test where it fails miserably.

 

I then have to go through the rigmarole of explaining that he's not got one, never had one, and should be tested without the expectations of needing a Cat.

 

Thankfully they usually listen and pass him.  Fortunately that happened this year too (MOT'd on Monday) - so he's passed.  *phew*

 

However, is there anything I can do to stop this nonsense happening year after year?

 

And, what are the acceptable limits for a non-cat Mini?  I'm not sure whether they actually retested the emissions to be entirely honest with you.  I'd like to check the figures on the emissions fail sheet I was given, and see if there's anything I need to do.

 

I'm really not trying to avoid doing the work (I'd rather get it right for the car's long-term health!)...

 

Anyone else struggle with the whole emissions misunderstandings?

[KernowCooper]

Here is what applies to pre- injection cars

 

Vehicles first used prior to 1 August 1975 are exempt from a metered emission test.

Vehicles first used on or after 1 August 1975 and before 1 August 1986:

• carbon monoxide (CO) 4.5 per cent at idle
• hydrocarbons (HC) 1,200ppm (parts per million)

Vehicles first used on or after 1 August 1986 and before 1 August 1992:

• carbon monoxide (CO) 3.5 per cent at idle
• hydrocarbons (HC) 1,200ppm

[GusRox]

On the failed emissions sheet I have:

 

Fast Idle:

 

CO%:  6.486

HC:        569

 

2nd Fast Idle:

 

CO%:  9.381

HC:        782

 

Still too high, then... 

[KernowCooper]

Way to high the plugs must be soot black at those readings, seriously needs a full engine tune to rectify those emissions reading and prevent engine damage.

[govig]

Those readings are nothing to do with having no cat. It's running way rich.