CA Engine Swap Laws/Question

[JCampbell1180]

Anyone savvy to the engine swap laws in California? Like, first hand “I’ve done it” savvy?

I read through this page and though it was pretty basic, I thought it would be beneficial to pass on:

http://www.jagsthatrun.com/Pages/Chevrolet_S-10_V-8_Smog.html

My specific question is admittedly based on hearsay and this is where I could use some clarification.

I have heard two variations of what is basically the same concept. First: the c.i.d. of the engine to be swapped (ex: 454 c.i., 350 c.i., 351 c.i., etc.) must have been originally offered from the factory for that make and model year. Second: the specific make and model of the engine to be swapped (ex: GM 454, GM 350, Ford 351) must have been originally offered from the factory for that make and model year.

Basically, what I want to know is, can I drop a ‘88+ 454 into my ’88 ¾ ton 4x4 Suburban? Even though 454’s were available in the Subs for my model year, they were not available in the 4x4’s.

Does that disqualify me? I would appreciate any clarification from those who’ve gone down this road.

 

[kevin400ex]

yes you can. just make sure all the emissions stuff is hooked up and functional.

http://www.bar.ca.gov/80_BARResources/07_AutoRepair/Engine_Change_Guidelines.html

 

[rufusbooth]

I have done a legal engine swap in CA and have the smog referee sticker to prove it.

I do believe you are golden. The key here (based on your question) is that the engine is model year = to or newer than the target engine bay and that the donor motor is from the same class vehicle.

for example.

target engine bay is classified as "light duty"
Donor engine came out of a vehicle classified as "heavy duty"
This combination is a no go because they are not the same class vehicles. heavy duty vehicles have less stringent smog regulations.


Check the under hood emissions stickers on both vehicles and if they are the same "class" you will be good to go (as long as you do all the other stuff to make the ref happy )

If you have any other questions let me know.

Cheers,

Rufus

 

[JCampbell1180]

10-4. Thanks for the clarification, Rufus.