[James Scott]

Well... . I failed my first smog test (Test Only) about two weeks ago by having excessive HC >> about 170 MEASURED with 100 being MAX. After I left, I realized I had left my SmallCar (?) Computer Chip wire switch to ON (12 Volt power to help with running regular gas) .. . plus I was using regular gas. I thought this was the problem mainly (hopefully), so I ran Techron cleaner, Berryman's injector cleaner, and Guaranteed To Pass cleaner through my engine with PREMIUM GAS prior to re-running smog test.

I also worried that I had changed my fuel pressure regulator about six years ago, when I was "preparing" to try nitrous (to beat my wife in her 2002 35th Anniv. "haul-ass" Camaro.. . Ha!). I couldn't remember if I left the increased pressure (Impreza) regulator in place (I thought so.. . so I relaced it with what I think (??) is the svx regulator before re-running the smog test). I posted a thread here about anyone knowing how I could deduce which regulator was which, based on the numbers on each (they look identical), but noone responded.

I took the smog re-test a couple days ago.. . the results were worse! I ran the test with the computer chip wire switch off and with premium gas. The HC's were now 265 (instead of 170 first test) with the MAX allowable being 100. HELP!

The only suggestion my friend could give is to try replacing O2 sensors (?). I ordered them out of frustration (they are at least 40 to 60K miles old) for $240 from SubaruParts.com.

Please offer any suggestions to help. California smog can be a NiGhTmArE!

1) Are the O2 sensors likely to help?

2) I guess I should run the next test with regular/switch ON, right?

3) Any ideas how I could determine which regulator is the SVX? Would it even be a problem if I used the Impreza (higher pressure) regulator?

4) HELP!

Thanks!