Hey, all!

I recently purchased a 77 K5 Blazer from Oregon and had it shipped to NorCal. I had a 71 K5 right out of high school but couldn't afford to keep her. Was inspired to find another K5 and my goal is to learn to work on her as a hobby (small to medium jobs as I learn and save the big stuff for a local pro). Recently failed smog test miserably. According to the results the PCV was modified, Thermostatic Air Clear is missing, Air filter was modified (Edelbrock). Cats not applicable but I'm not clear if California emission standards will mean I have to have Cats installed on her?

She's got a few other issues I'll need to tackle but need to get her to pass CA smog first. If anyone reading this has had experience with bringing in a Blazer from out of state and needed to purchase original smog equipment or you have suggestions on websites for additional info, I'm all ears! Fired up to learn.

Thanks!

Scot

 

To pass smog, you'll need to install everything that was removed. That year may or may not need a cat, depending on if it's a Federal or California vehicle. I don't remember off the top of my head. If the underhood emissions decal is still present and legible, it will show all the pollution control devices the vehicle had from the factory. Unfortunately, some of the parts are getting pretty hard to find, and expensive when you can find them. You might get lucky finding an original air cleaner assembly, but be prepared to pay.

The PCV is easy. You just need the PCV valve in one valve cover with a hose to the base of the carburetor, and a hose to the air cleaner from the other valve cover. If you have aftermarket valve covers, you may have to cut holes in them, or replace with stock.

The thermostatic air cleaner also requires the correct exhaust manifolds, a heat tube to the air cleaner, a thermostatic vacuum switch, and a few vacuum hoses. Those parts may still be available new aftermarket.

Good luck with it, and keep us updated.

 

Much appreciated, Tom. The journey begins. I budgeted for a fair amount of to do's. Engine runs well, brakes, alignment and shocks good so getting her legal to drive soon is first up.