Failed SVA

[Underground Ernie]

Hi,

Had test at Edmonton this morning.

The test started badly when the tester insisted on proof of engine age, when I told him I didn't have proof he said he couldn't do a emisions test without proof of age, (fail at very first thing to be checked)  but I did manage to persuade him to test the emisions even though they would not count towards the test so that I would know if emisions were OK for retest.

The next problem was we couldn't get the engine to fast idle, we would get to 1600 rpm and the revs would suddenly jump up and down on their own accord, but if reved through it to say 4000rpm then try to lower the revs on the throttle they would just die, we just couldn't control the revs. Anyway this took so long trying to get a result that the exhaust was getting so hot that the rear supporting bobbin disintegrated and the exhaust (raceline) was hanging on the manifold. (another fail ).

By this time I was looking for me coat and cursing that it was Friday 13th but the rest of the test went like a dream the only other failure was headlight adjustment.

Considering the start and the date I'm well chuffed

I am a bit concerned with not being able to control the revs though, could it be the map? (standard 2.0 zetec on throttle bodies, emerald ecu) do any of you loverly people have a map I could have to get me through the retest? (next friday)

Thanks

Mitch

[Blatman]

You don't need a map just yet. You do need to look at the logging to see if you can see what's happening when you try and hold the revs. For example, if you're getting some sort of CPS signal scatter at fast idle, loading a new map won't help. Diagnose the problem before you try to fix it...

[Underground Ernie]

Thanks Blatman

Unfortunately I won't have access to a laptop until monday so will post up what I find.

What sort of things should I be looking for or what do you think it could be?

Mitch

[Blatman]

It could be mechanical or electrical, theres no way to say for sure so check the logs first. There are so many possibilities, and I wouldn't want to lead you down a path with suggestions only to find that it was something I hadn't suggested and you'd wasted a load of time chasing a spurious theory...

[stu999]

What *is* the age of the engine?

[chazpowerslide]

Dave mapped my 2.0 Zetec on 40mm bodies (Emerald ecu) I can send you the map if you like.

Chaz.

[Underground Ernie]

Going by Burtons catalogue it is a 1997 engine which is what I declared on the SVA application.

I did not obtain proof of age as I have fitted a cat and lambda sensor and presumed they would test it as a post Aug 95.

I did mention this to the tester but he was having none of it, and insisted on documentive proof of age (V5 or headed letter from Ford)

Anyway it didn't matter because we couldn't control the revs for the emisions test as posted above.

I have written to Ford's technical centre for proof, just hope it turns up in time for retest.

Mitch

[Mickey]

Having just had an SVA at Edmonton it seems that engine manufacture date is their favourite hit.  

My Westfield supplied recon Zetec has the original number ground away and replaced with a new 'tab' and despite noting on the application form that the engine is a ‘pre 94 unit’, as instructed by the man at Kingswinford, the SVA guy would have none of it and made the car go through the lower emissions test, which of course it failed.  Webbers just can’t compete with injectors and a catalytic converter!!

I have spoken to Westfield and they will supply a letter confirming the engine manufacture date, which hopefully will suffice.

By the way  also failed on various ‘radiuses’, including the rear fog light switch, which despite what the manual says is in the wrong place. It should be second switch from the steering wheel and not on the end!

[Peter M]

By the way  also failed on various ‘radiuses’, including the rear fog light switch, which despite what the manual says is in the wrong place. It should be second switch from the steering wheel and not on the end!

Its normally because for some reason the westfield supplied fog switch is not radiused like the other switches and as to be placed within the 127mmm radius from steering wheel.

Hope you resolve your age issues.

Good luck on retest.

[Underground Ernie]

IT PASSED TODAY!    

I managed to get a headed letter from Ford to prove age.

At the first test the tester was adament that I had proof of age, even though I had fitted a cat and Lambda

I did mention to the tester today that I thought he was wrong on the age issue, (after test)   as he should of just done a cat test if proof was not produced, but he still was having none of it, I will be calling VOSA to ask them to remind the testers at Edmonton of the emmision testing procedures.

To be fair though, I thought the car would fail on alot more things than it did, the tester did let alot of dubious things go through (sharp edges & tempary covers on RAC stays) and even today the tester done everything he could to get me through the emissions test.

I supose it's the luck of the draw as far as testers are concerned.

Mickey, good luck with retest

Mitch

[CedricTheBrave]

Well done on the pass

[Underground Ernie]

Peter,

Just noticed that penguin SCAREY!

Can you tell it to give me Saturday's Lottery numbers.

[Peter M]

when i had my car SVA'd examiner said it would be tested to latest emissions because i did not have proof of engine age which was not a problem because car had cat and lambda fitted.So as you say unless rules have changed examiner should have just done latest emission test.

By the way well done.