Emission test inspection of exhaust joints

[Stephen Tashiro]

What do various state emissions inspections require of the joints in an automotive exhaust system. Are they simply required not to have an obvious leak?

I helped replace the catalytic converter on a friend's car, mainly because we had never done such a job and wanted to try it. Our locale has no emission test requirement. The new converter is a fraction of an inch shorter than the OEM converter so the exhaust flanges at the joint are not "kissing". However, I think the circular gaskets in the joints are sufficient to prevent any leak. I'm curious whether other states' emission test rules require more precise work.

[Dan Hintz]

It probably varies from inspector to inspector. When the metal badge fell off of my S2000's stainless Invidia exhaust, it left a tiny (1/16" x 1/8") hole from the weld. The inspector bitched, so I filled it with JB-Weld.

[Jerome Stanek]

Here in Ohio they just do a quick check of the exhaust to make sure everything is there. They do a gas cap pressure test and hook up to the on board computer