After 15 years I now have a CRX again. Previous was a 87 CRX SI, wish I would have kept that, but now I have 1986 CRX 1.5 CRX HF.

In a few days I will have to get a smog check, by law, to register in my state of AZ. I'm no mechanic, I just like these Hondas and the CRX qualifies for the CAR Pool Lane, being a two seater. Nice !

This car has a carb, so I'm concerned about rumors that smog emission tests can be a problem. As far as I know, this car is all stock, and engine not modified.
My question now is, what are the usual issues with this model and age when taking to the smog test? Anything I can do prior to that to avoid a fail ?

Thanks in advance for all advice and any info.

 

When was the last time it had a tune up? I'd start there before anything.

O2 Sensors, if they haven't been replaced. (just as a precaution)
Catalytic Converter/muffler, if your car measures high, this could be another suspect.
Any aftermarket parts such as Header, intake? Also, ensure all the emission/evap system is still in place.

 

I was told it was tuned 8000 miles ago, but no records. Last timing belt installed 35000 miles ago/4 years.

The motor is standard no modifications..I believe him on that . The car is from a state where no emissions required, but, I live in a state/city where it must pass emissions to be registered here. Just like Calif testing from what I'm told. Tough on emissions.We seem to copy all that from them. One possible hint I got is that it had problems with low idle before I bought it.

Thanks for your reply and all info

 

I would also search around for some shops that offer smog checks before you go take it to get it officially smog.

 

unfortunately you can't know till you test it.
Does it burn oil/coolant, smell rich, get poor mpg?
If none of those are an issue I say you have a good chance of passing.
Put regular gas in and make sure it's nice and warm.

 

Carb cars are more difficult to pass emissions by far. Pull the plugs. Check for carbon or fouling. If you have clean plugs, I would just check timing and go to smog test. As mentioned above, make sure good and hot (I would run it on the highway first). If the plugs are even slightly fouled, I would start with running a can of Seafoam or equivalent through the gas. Give it some hard runs. Then replace the 02 sensor and go to smog test and see where you are at. If you still have high HC's (I am assuming your cat converter is good here), then I would take it to a shop that specializes in carbs and have them spec the idle, mixture, and timing.