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CARB Triggers New Certification Procedure for Diesel Performance Parts

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has issued its new test procedure and related requirements to obtain Executive Orders (E.O.s) for emissions-related diesel performance parts. Of note is CARB’s development of a “Parts in Progress List” that identifies companies having submitted all traditional E.O. applications materials but who must now address additional requirements. By following the required steps, parts will be prevented from causing failure of the smog-check test.

This new program provides an opportunity for diesel parts manufacturers to submit all E.O. application materials and include responses to additional questions to be asked by CARB. Upon successful completion of this initial process, applicants will be given one year to conduct the required emissions tests and obtain E.O.s (beginning July 1, 2010 and ending July 1, 2011) during which time no diesel vehicle equipped with parts in the certification process (Part in Progress List) will fail the visual portion of the California Bureau of Automotive Repair’s (BAR’s) smog-check test. The deadline for being included on the “Parts in Progress List” is July 1, 2010, after which a company will not qualify for the one-year period to obtain certification.

To view the current CARB “Parts in Progress List,” go to www.arb.ca.gov, click on “aftermarket parts,” identify and click on the “Parts in Progress” link and the current list should appear. CARB will be updating this list on a continuing basis, adding the names and products of companies who have qualified for the program. The BAR smog-check stations will be referencing this part of the CARB website to identify products that will not cause failure of the smog-check’s visual portion.

SEMA has and will continue to monitor this program and update affected members with any new information. SEMA would also like to acknowledge the contributions made by Gale Banks Engineering in establishing this new program, which will be invaluable to the affected members of our industry.

For additional information, contact Jim McFarland at 901/377-1210 or jmcfar1@aol.com.