Hi,
Just bought my first Samurai
It's a '87 - stock motor and tranny, shackle lifted, SPOA with 33" tires and weber carb. The seller had it registered to a smog-free zip code but I am not so fortunate
While the seller mostly used it on his ranch, I plan to make this rig more street friendly
Still debating whether I will keep the 33" tires but the motor definitely needs an upgrade, I feel. To that extent, I have read several threads but I did not find any article/blog/post with comprehensive information that covers the smog situation along with fuel injection options, clutch and exhaust options - especially for CA/Smog victims.
My smog situation is such that my local shop where I get all my cars fixed is also a smog station so I am spared the visual up-the-ass checks (had rear cats on my Boxster removed and they just checked the emissions).
So I would really appreciate some clarifications specific to my unusual smog situation
- What engine? The 1.6L 8v seems like an easier job but I'd much rather get the 1.6L 16v when I am going to be dropping a couple of Gs into the project. Is the smog inspection failure with 16v have to do with visual inspection or the emissions themselves?
- Is there such a thing as a 1.6L 16v OBD1 engine? Wikipedia tells me that between 91-94, Suzuki sold a Vitara with the 16v version - G16A or G16B (which one)? And, if true, is there a reliable source for this engine? Other than searching in junkyards?
- The carburetor to FI (TBI or MPFI) conversion: a definitive parts list?
- what changes are required to the stock clutch or tranny, if any, with either the 8v or 16v engine?
- With either the 8v or 16v, can I hookup the stock exhaust with catalytic converters? I believe a new cat should do wonders to meeting emission norms for smog.
- any beefing up recommended with an engine upgrade?
Thanks! Look forward to lots more researching and building
