Eliminating the smog kit from a 64-66

[RDaniels84]

I have a 1966 hardtop with a 390 in it - looking to eliminate the smog system on it and know I will need a new bracket and pulley. Was wondering if anyone has done this and if they could recommend a good kit?

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[makrie]

I haven't seen a thermactor exhaust system in person as they were only required in California in 66 while the rest of the states were waiting for a mandate. I don't know if there's a kit but the stock setup from anywhere else should bolt right up. Good luck!

 

[RDaniels84]

I've figured out how to bypass or eliminate nearly everything except for the smog pump as the pulley on it allows the belt to run the A/C pump too.

 

[66bluebird]

I had the same problem. I ended up gutting the smog pump of all the "pump" parts so now it functions as only a pulley.
I plugged all the exhaust manifold holes with set screws with allen head, I was able to run them in flush with the manifolds and they look super clean.
There is a way to do it right but my car also has AC and it was too complicated to source all the correct parts.
I would still like to get the 49 state set up though.

 

[Gary Tayman]

The heading says "64-66." The only plumbing mandated on these cars is the PVC valve, replacing the crankcase breather. That's a good thing; keep it in place. The state of California began mandating EGR-type components for 1966; which I'm sure is what the subject is about. Removing it should only be a matter of replacing the related components with those from a non-California car. Next thing, is the car still in California, or some metro area? I don't know how the laws work, or if this car is old enough to be exempt. This crap eventually became nationwide, and I remember living in the DC area and having to get emissions-inspections for my cars. (This was in Woodbridge, Virginia, Prince William County.) Sarasota, Florida -- never had to deal with it. Regardless, that's one thing I like about having a 64 -- nobody can tell me what kind of carburetor I can or can't put on the car.

 

[64ZCODE]

In CA, smog tests not required on ‘75 and older cars.

 

[BennettThunderbird]

I had the same problem. I ended up gutting the smog pump of all the "pump" parts so now it functions as only a pulley.
I plugged all the exhaust manifold holes with set screws with allen head, I was able to run them in flush with the manifolds and they look super clean.
There is a way to do it right but my car also has AC and it was too complicated to source all the correct parts.
I would still like to get the 49 state set up though.

Thanks for the info! Where you able to take the cylinder out inside? I can't seem to get it out and it's rubbing metal to metal inside.

 

[OneAmongOthers]

Where I live in Pennsylvania inspection is visual only for anything. Doesn’t matter what. Though most places won’t touch anything with OBD1 systems. They just get visual inspection and gas cap.