03-25-2008, 09:11 AM
So long as the conversion adheres to MSEM 1A, and the company doing the conversion or the package complies with CFR Parts 85 - 88, it's alright. If not, it's an illegal conversion and a violation of EPA regulations. These standards were developed not to prevent cleaner or alternative fuels and engines, but to prevent companies from violating emissions standards by just claiming it pollutes less. So if they can't get certification, maybe the fuel isn't as clean or as good as they claim.
Unfortunately, most people don’t realize the violation until they have an inspection, or go to a legitimate service center that has to report conversions (without an EPA certificate affixed to the conversion) and find their vehicle impounded. In most cases, there is no monetary relief to the vehicle owner; they are out the cost of the conversion, fines, penalties, court cost, lost of use of their vehicle, and the cost to convert it back to approved EPA standards.
Unfortunately, most people don’t realize the violation until they have an inspection, or go to a legitimate service center that has to report conversions (without an EPA certificate affixed to the conversion) and find their vehicle impounded. In most cases, there is no monetary relief to the vehicle owner; they are out the cost of the conversion, fines, penalties, court cost, lost of use of their vehicle, and the cost to convert it back to approved EPA standards.