computerised MOTs - any difference on emissions ?

[menostig]

So I'm curious whether the recent computerisation of all UK MOT stations will have any effect, particularly on emissions testing. Any experiences ?

My Sport (with Holley 750 on Chevy ZZ4) was registered new on an S plate in 1998. It has a Type Approval certificate. I think this was all in the days prior to SVA. I believe that from S plate on, all kit cars had to have some basic emissions test. Previously I've mumbled 'pre 73 block' and 'visual smoke test only for kit cars' and that's all they've done with no paper or computer checks of engine numbers etc.

I'd like to better informed this time around particularly if 'the computer says no!'.
So please can anyone inform me what MOT class applies for emissions ?

cheers
Roger

[gdr]

I'm also interested in this as first MOT due this year. SVA was visual smoke only as per old block, but no mention of emissions standard on my new style registration certificate (which presumably has same data as on the MOT computer). I'm hoping a copy of SVA certificate will be enough to convince MOT man that visual smoke test is all that's needed.

[peterpsg]

Perhaps the factory would like to make a comment about this... ???

Otherwise it could be time to replace the old SBC with a newer LS1/6/7 !!!

[peterpsg]

Hey Stig, can we make this a FAQ or at least a sticky, as it's probably quite important to get it right to save a lot hoff hassel (pun intended) !!!

[menostig]

But my Sport was prior to SVA. Hence 1. is ok but not 2. Where does that leave me ?
1. DECLARED NEW AT FIRST REGISTRATION
2. SVA CERT ISSUED 13 06 2002 EMISSIONS-VISUAL TEST ONLY

[menostig]

Wow. Great service UltimaFactory ! How many other specialist car owners can get an email reply on an obscure enquiry at 9.20pm ?

I did wonder how it got the Type Approval in 1998 without SVA . But you've explained it. Thanks.

Think I'll try the MOT first with your explanation if necessary. And if they don't play ball then I'll contact the DVLA. Only oddity is that I think ZZ4 engines were 'new' factory crate so not on old enough blocks to avoid emissions.

thanks again
Roger.

[menostig]

Aha found the Ministers Approval Certificate. The 'Type Code' is 'A0C'. A google search didn't translate this for me. UltimaFactory, what codes mean 'visual emissions' in your experience ?

cheers

Roger

[gdr]

ultima factory said:

The registration document V5C for your Ultima should contain under Section 3 Special Notes: 1. DECLARED NEW AT FIRST REGISTRATION 2. SVA CERT ISSUED 13 06 2002 EMISSIONS-VISUAL TEST ONLY .....don't panic if your registration document doesn't contain this yet....all that is required is for you to post your registration document to Swansea for them to amend it

Thanks guys, that's exactly what I needed, will send V5C off for update and cease to panic as instructed!

[peterpsg]

Does anyone know if we can get a copy of the SVA cert from the DVLA ?

Just that I'm the 3rd owner of my GTR, and I'm thinking of taking it home (NZ) sometime, and the SVA certificate might come in handy when I have to go thru the equivalent process there...

Cheers,
Peter

[menostig]

www.vosa.gov.uk/vosa/carlgvowners/importingandbuildingvehicles/singlevehicleapprovaltestfees.htm says you can get a replacement certificate for £10 but doesn't say how. It does have a contacts page though so would ping them an email to find out.

[menostig]

Thanks once again to UltimaFactory for the advice. I know how often the phone rings in kit car manufacturing offices (if they have them). I know that most calls are not generating any direct revenue. I imagine that emails compound the time spent. So full credit to the Ultima factory for the support given to this forum - even on cars built, registered, SVA'd, fiddled with and messed about; all without factory involvement.

[eliot]

I guess a single post here, prevents several emails/calls though.