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  #1  
Old 10-04-2008, 12:26 PM
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Question 560SL Failed Virginia Emissions Inspection

I have a 1987 560SL that failed Fairfax Virginia emissions inspection for the HC ppm reading and I really do not know what the next step is.

I have replaced the Fuel Distributor, EGR Valve, idle valve and Catalic Converter. I have looked for vacuum leaks and my Econ Gauge moves between at 'E' and 'C" while idling. I do have a miss at idle that I cannot seem to fix

Here are my readings, see the HC ppm...

HC ppm
15 mph limit 49 reading 167
25mph limit 89 reading 252

CO%
15mph limit .20 reading .14
15mph limit .29 reading .20

NO ppm
15mph limit 643 reading 299
25mph limit 625 reading 221

I just bought the 560SL and cannot enjoy it until I can get it to pass inspection. I have taken it to an 'indy' and they said that I need another fuel distributor which would be my third, it does not make sence to me to spend another $800 for a distiributor when the other one did not make any difference.

Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.


Last edited by jkbaker4; 10-04-2008 at 12:35 PM.
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  #2  
Old 10-04-2008, 02:14 PM
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Join Date: May 2008
Location: Ipswich, MA and Phoenix, AZ
Posts: 92
j- that seems odd. Have you replaced plugs, rotor, cap and wires? I'd do that first. How is the thermostat? Is it getting warm enough? The system depends upon the engine running warm (read: hot). Then drive it on the Interstate for at least 30 minutes before taking it in. Get it good and warm. I'd do the (relatively) cheap things first! Also, go to a "friendly" garage, they'll help you pass, and not rip you off. My 380 passes w/no problems here in Taxachusetts, so you should pass no problem in VA. Good luck, Ned.
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  #3  
Old 10-04-2008, 09:12 PM
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Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: Greater Metropolitan Beaverdam VA
Posts: 2,877
emission inspex

If your "economy" gauge is not solidly pegged all the way to the left at idle, you have a pretty big vacuum leak. Find it, fix it and pass inspection.

For starters, look at the intake manifold vacuum source pipe at the rear of the engine. It is tough to see. You need a flashlight to look between the rear of the engine and the firewall. You will also need some dexterity to replace the right angle rubber connector if it is bad. That connector lives in a high temperature, oil rich environment and is often the first to go. As a temporary quick fix you can use a piece of thick wall plastic tubing until you get the right connector.

Let us know how you make out.
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  #4  
Old 10-05-2008, 01:13 AM
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Join Date: May 2006
Location: Bradenton, FL
Posts: 286
Quote:
Originally Posted by rocky raccoon View Post
If your "economy" gauge is not solidly pegged all the way to the left at idle, you have a pretty big vacuum leak. Find it, fix it and pass inspection.

For starters, look at the intake manifold vacuum source pipe at the rear of the engine. It is tough to see. You need a flashlight to look between the rear of the engine and the firewall. You will also need some dexterity to replace the right angle rubber connector if it is bad. That connector lives in a high temperature, oil rich environment and is often the first to go. As a temporary quick fix you can use a piece of thick wall plastic tubing until you get the right connector.

Let us know how you make out.
+1 for Rocky's suggestion...1st place I'd go too. I'd also think about changing out the 02 sensor. You can get the MB one for around $100+/-, or splice in the Bosch unit for the 90 Ford Mustang, 5.0 liter for around $30; same sensor, different connector, hence the splice.

Bob
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'87 560SL-Sold
'99 SL500 For Now
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  #5  
Old 10-07-2008, 10:14 AM
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Join Date: Oct 2008
Posts: 3
Update on Failed Emissions

I adjusted the mixture (52%) and my Econ gauge pegs to the left. Using propane (how scary is that) checked for vacuum leaks (found none), went to have it re-tested and now have the following readings, which are worse then the previous readings (but it seems to run better)

Here are my readings, see the HC ppm...

HC ppm
15 mph limit 49 reading 178
25mph limit 89 reading 265

CO%
15mph limit .20 reading .19
15mph limit .29 reading .23

NO ppm
15mph limit 643 reading 435
25mph limit 625 reading 440

I ordered a new set of plug wires and I am hoping that it will fix it. Just in case anyone is keeping track, the following items have been replaced so far:
- Fuel Distributor
- EGR Valve
- idle valve
- Catalic Converter
- Injector Seals

Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.
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  #6  
Old 10-07-2008, 10:24 AM
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Join Date: Mar 2003
Location: Milwaukee Wisconsin
Posts: 1,150
I'm curious... What grade ( octane ) gasoline are you using? Is it 10% or more ethynol?
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  #7  
Old 10-07-2008, 10:36 AM
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What grade ( octane ) gasoline

Good question, I went to Sunoco and filled my half full tank with permium 94 octane which I was hoping would give me better numbers, but as you can see above the numbers were worse, and it is 10% ethynol.
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  #8  
Old 10-07-2008, 11:50 AM
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Join Date: Mar 2003
Location: Milwaukee Wisconsin
Posts: 1,150
You might try a forum search at http://www.benzworld.org/ for info on items like : the timing resistor / advance curve / emmisions.

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