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Well, I went for my biennial auto emissions test and my 1992 Honda Accord failed the test with a high NOX reading. The standard is 2.50 and my car was 2.52. I drove hard on the freeway for 10 miles before the test, there was a 15 minute wait in line, car idling the whole time, over 100 degrees out, so it was well prepped for the test. Looking at the past few times the car has been in for an emissions test, the NOX has always been high. Here is a little history of my readings. All taken after the car is fully warmed up by a long freeway drive and long wait time in 100 plus degree temperatures.
2 years ago after new spark plugs, wires, Seafoam treatment, cleaning of distributor cap and rotor.
HC .60
CO 8.81
NOX 2.61 FAIL
Took corrective action with new PCV Valve, cleaned EGR Valve with Carbon Cleaner, and installed new O2 sensor. Re-tested 50 miles later. Readings
HC .60
CO 8.79
NOX 2.45 PASS
Two Days ago. Have done nothing to the car in last two years expect add bottle of fuel system cleaner at last fill-up. Have hardly driven the car.
HC .60
CO 7.55
NOX 2.52 FAIL
I don't know whether or not to spend money on EGR port cleaning or a new catalytic converter. I'm torn between the two. If I go the catalytic converter route, which brand of catalytic converter should I request at a shop and does it matter if I get a universal or direct fit? Would there be any savings buying one online and having a shop put it in? I want the car to sound stock and quiet. The car drives beautifully and there is no hesitation, stumbling etc.
i would do both. you can get catalytic converters in universal fit and have them installed by a competent shop with no problem. and the EGR system needs regular maintenance anyway.
NOX is usually caused by two things....running lean, and running hot. EGR is usually the device which helps control cylinder temps and fills the cylinder with inert gas. When the EGR becomes clogged, the amount of gas flow can be reduced causing the car to start to run lean when the EGR is open and raise cylinder temps.
My first order of business would be to clean the hell out of the EGR again.
Well, I went for my biennial auto emissions test and my 1992 Honda Accord failed the test with a high NOX reading. The standard is 2.50 and my car was 2.52. I drove hard on the freeway for 10 miles before the test, there was a 15 minute wait in line, car idling the whole time, over 100 degrees out, so it was well prepped for the test. Looking at the past few times the car has been in for an emissions test, the NOX has always been high. Here is a little history of my readings. All taken after the car is fully warmed up by a long freeway drive and long wait time in 100 plus degree temperatures.
2 years ago after new spark plugs, wires, Seafoam treatment, cleaning of distributor cap and rotor.
HC .60
CO 8.81
NOX 2.61 FAIL
Took corrective action with new PCV Valve, cleaned EGR Valve with Carbon Cleaner, and installed new O2 sensor. Re-tested 50 miles later. Readings
HC .60
CO 8.79
NOX 2.45 PASS
Two Days ago. Have done nothing to the car in last two years expect add bottle of fuel system cleaner at last fill-up. Have hardly driven the car.
HC .60
CO 7.55
NOX 2.52 FAIL
I don't know whether or not to spend money on EGR port cleaning or a new catalytic converter. I'm torn between the two. If I go the catalytic converter route, which brand of catalytic converter should I request at a shop and does it matter if I get a universal or direct fit? Would there be any savings buying one online and having a shop put it in? I want the car to sound stock and quiet. The car drives beautifully and there is no hesitation, stumbling etc.
It is very common for the EGR port in the manifold to clog up with carbon. You can clean it out with a coat hanger and lots of carb cleaner.
And given the age of your car, it's quite possible your converter is no longer operating at peak level.
I just went through the same thing with my sons 1999 Honda accord, 2 bolts to remove it , 1 can carb cleaner , reinstalled it , retested it , PASSED WITH FLYING COLORS !. Shop wanted $100.00 to fix the problem. $8.75 + 1/2 hours time got the job done .
Next time use a product called BG-44: it's a little expensive but it will clean your whole fuel system your catalytic converter and O2 sensor. Just open the can and pour it in your tank. Fill your tank with premium gas run it for a day or so ..bam! Yu should pass emission with ease.
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