Just one correction to make;
Catalytic converters weren't installed on any cars
prior to 1974, EGR's, Air pumps, and various gadgets to alter ignition
timing were added. Vapor recovery stuff was added as well but most seems to be
harmless as long as the plumbing is good. Catalytic converters were developed by
G.M and were actually a blessing at the time in that they could tune up the
engines more to improve horsepower and fuel economy while keeping emissions
down. Interestingly enough the lean burn cars didn't use a Cat converter in the
early years as they already exceeded emission standards, at least 49 state cars,
and improved gas mileage, while they worked.
What you mention bellow is essentially true.
Contrary to what many documentaries claim it wasn't the Arab oil embargo that
killed the American muscle cars it was the smog laws, and the insurance
companies that killed them. High performance was already dead and buried long
before the Yom Kipper war. The same engine from 1968 lost 15% of its power and
20%-25% of its gas mileage, in real terms, by 1972 thanks to legislated
government stupidity. If the Feds had given Detroit ten years to revamp their
engine designs instead of mandating patch jobs like EGR's and Air pumps the
North American auto industry would have been better for it. Thankfully, due to
the aftermarket suppliers, we can convert a smog era motor to pre smog standards
of economy and performance, even install a six pack in the 71' leBaron if it
will fit under the hood.
Best Regards
Arran Foster
1954 Imperial Newport
Needing A Left Side Tailight Bezel and other trim
parts.
1975 Chrysler Newport
No EGR, or Smog Pump, Or Cat.
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