The smog technicians reference guide book. Where can I buy one?

Recently I tried to get my car smogged and it did not pass. The technician had a resource book which showed him what emissions equipment my vehicle was supposed to come with. He pointed to a line that had the heading "ACL". Do you know what this stands for? He told me this meant my vehicle need a thermostatic air cleaner and a vacuum advance distributor. After talking to other technicians it sounds like he was just trying to get me out the door. The car in questions is a 1989 Volkswagen GTI with a 1.8L 16v engine. The engine code is a "PL".

Any information would be greatly appreciated.

Also, Is there a site which you can purchase this book from?

Answer:

You can purchase the manual from MOTOR INFORMATION SYSTEMS. The technician is correct, according to our emissions application guide your vehicle should be equipped with an ACL (air cleaner assembly with thermostatic heat duct). The heat duct looks like a flexible metal tube with one end attached to the air cleaner box on top of the engine and the other end to the exhaust manifold cover. It is common for older vehicles' which have had the air cleaner unit removed and replaced several dozen times over years to lose the heat duct. This is an inexpensive fix. The pre-heat tube can be purchased from your local auto parts store for a minimal cost.

posted by SmogTips Support