Motor swap in California

[Acehye559]

I know in California the CHP and state is tough on swaps done on Hondas/Acuras etc. How tough are they when it comes to getting your car smogged? Or How tough are the B.A.R referees when they inspect e30 swaps?

Ive done research and I dont really see any laws against it. As long as The engine is from the same year or newer and have ALL the emissions equipment which was originally supplied with the donor engine from the factory. And that the motor is from the same family of vehicles (example a car to car and truck to truck).

If I am missing some details let me know. Im really trying to figure everything out before I put money into a swap.

[MR 325]

This has been covered on R3V many many times.

Although I have no personal experience most who have recently had their car refereed have said it was very easy. You can usually go to them before hand and they will inspect your car and tell you what you need to do. Obviously the most OEM looking setup is going to be the best.

[MR 325]

For the record, talking about the CHP being tough on Honda swaps and talking about getting your car BAR'd are two very different things. Also, I have never heard of one person having an issue with a 24v E30. I've been running my swap since 11/07.

[Acehye559]

Thanks for the input, reason why I said CHP is because Ive heard people having problems with them. Also, I know everything is covered on r3v and yes i used the search button but really didnt find any info. Plus I want to go with 32v

[reelizmpro]

Having had a swapped Honda, I can say that they really focused on Honda's and swaps due to the illegal street racing and thefts (they take the engines). Let's face it, there are far more swapped Honda's and knuckleheads driving them than old BMW's. There just aren't as many old "raced out" BMW's to cause a concern. Now if you're in the SFV...maybe. =] haha

[Acehye559]

^ true. Im sure they wouldnt make a big deal with the 24v swap but it'll get a little bit more attention with v8 under the hood of an e30.

[reelizmpro]

I don't know. There are a lot of swapped E30's in CA though. Must not be that big of a deal.

[ToPLeSS(e30)FeinD]

u said 32v? this'll be interesting

[Acehye559]

^yes sir, m60

[Rodoni]

There's a dude up north with a m60 in his e30. Also a guy with a supercharged one...it's nasty