Press Release Summary = Smog pump systems were once thrown in the trash, but today they are in demand to complete restorations. Here's what it takes to get that factory finished look.
Press Release Body = Smog pump systems were once thrown in the trash, but today they are in demand to complete restorations. Here's what it takes to get that factory finished look.
Perhaps you've spent years searching swap meets for a correct smog pump assembly. Now that you've found it what do you do with it? We have restored many of these units, and we can offer up some interesting tips about how to refinish and install smog systems. An internal rebuild can be done professionally or at home, but we suggest some careful research before you begin the project. One of the most useful things to have for any Smog Pump project is the correct year shop and assembly manual. They're available from a number of tte aftermarket sources, including HELMS, DRAGICH LIT, ETC Once the unit is mechanically sound, you're ready to tackle the cosmetic aspects of the job. Many of the AIR system components are plated pieces, requiring the services of a plating professional. The list below indicates the types of plating finishes required. It's always a good idea to study the underhood areas of your type of Smog Pump at shows as long as the car being viewed as a reference is correct. Take photos of the systems on these cars to use as reference material. Carefully note the finishes of the various components. Learn as much as you can before you begin. Ask question. Knowledgeable enthusiasts are always willing to help. The following example is a 1972 454 engine, but most early GM smog systems are similar. Study your unit carefully beforehand, noting the finish of each component. Take notes. You can always use aerosol paint if on a budget instead of plating!..
Before Most Air systems are well-worn and heavily weathered, sometimes even damaged. This 1972 454 unit is missing its diverter outlet assembly.
After What a difference a restoration makes ! After a complete internal rebuild, we've gone ahead with a cosmetic resto. The system is now ready to be reinstalled on the 454 engine.
Note: Once the components (on the front page) are put back in use on an engine, In time their factory appearance will deteriorate. We have a simple solution that has worked for us: a clear urethane finish that acts to preserve the newly plated/painted surfaces. Here's the trick: Components to be urethaned should be suspended with wire in a spray booth or a clean spray area. Use R-M urethane clear RV 86 and RV87: Mix six ounces of clear to three ounces of catalyst. Add three ounces of PPG Ditzler DX 685 flattener to the clear mix. Stir thoroughly and strain into the paint gun (preferably a gravity-feed type). The temperature should be approximately 75 degrees with no more than 60% humidity for best results. Hold the gun approximately 12 inches away from the parts, using 50 psi line pressure. Fog a coat over the entire area of all the components. Let this dry for 10 minutes and apply one more coat holding the gun only nine inches away at 60 psi. Let this dry for at least two days before handling with rubber gloves. 1. We are removing the old block-off plugs where the injection tubes fit. These plugs were usually placed in exhaust manifolds when a smog system was not installed at the factory. 2. Insert new injection tubes into the manifolds. Push or tap them very lightly until they seat flush inside the manifold. Note: Remember to tape or wrap tools where they make contact with nut and bolt heads to prevent mars or scratches. Or purchase a "no-mar plastic" socket cover set. Injection tubes are available from most Classic Car supply houses. 3. Install check valves onto manifold tube using Copper Plus Sealer. Use only a small amount on the threads so it won't show when completely assembled. 4. Tighten with a flare wrench crescent or open end wrench. Note tape protection between wrench and nut! 5. Place a very thin application of Copper Plus on manifold tube threads one side at a time. 6. Install manifold tube, being very careful not to scratch anything. On the passenger side pull back the dipstick tube slightly for clearance and set the tube in place. Turn a few threads on each outlet until all are started, then proceed to tighten until all four are snug. Tape or wrap a clean towel in and around the valve covers and cylinder heads to avoid scratches. Ideally, a flared wrench should be used, but a 9/16 open end will work if you tape it up carefully."AS SHOWN" 7. Install diverter outlet on pump using correct SB marked bolts and new gasket. Tighten to 10 ft lbs. 8. Install Chevrolet Orange pump bracket to pump, using the long TR bolt and spacer if so equipped. Do not tighten at this time. 9. Take the pump assembly and install it on the engine, note location of bolts in photo. Use the correct TR marked bolts. This is where an assistant can be invaluable. 10. Install the "semi-gloss" black adjusting bracket to the location shown in the photos. Remove the bolt and install the bottom of the adjusting bracket under the existing bracket. Place the bolt through both brackets and turn in a few threads to hold. 11. Attach the bolt into the pump adjusting bracket slot and turn it a few threads also to hold it in place. 12. Now attach the pump pulley with three bolts. They should have the TR Markings on the heads if you want concours correct. Torque to 10 ft lbs. 13. Measure the hoses and cut the passenger side diverter hose 10 inches long. Cut the hose for driver side 21 inches long. Attach the clamps and position the hoses over the outlets. 14. Position clamp on driver side, check valve goes toward fender, facing outward as shown. 15. Position the passenger side clamp on to the check valve facing downward as shown. 16. Position clamps on to the diverter valve assembly facing upward. Note the white line vacuum hose with the white line running directly on top attached to diverter vac nipple to vac tee. If you're doing a body-off restoration, you'll need to wait to put on the drive belts for the Smog Pump, AC, Power Steering, etc. The water pump pulley and fan will be installed as you are dropping the body. If you're restoring a car with the body on the frame then proceed with the installation of the pulley, fan and belts and adjust to the manufacturer's specifications. At this point, you need to tighten all bolts and nuts covered in the assembly. Then you're ready for judging ! Its a win win situation!!!!
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2025
