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Old 09-12-2009, 11:56 AM   #22 (permalink)
jpstaub
EcoModding Lurker
 
Join Date: Sep 2009
Location: Portland, ME
Posts: 13

Insight 1G - '00 Honda Insight
90 day: 79.26 mpg (US)
Thanks: 0
Thanked 14 Times in 6 Posts
Illegal engine

Quote:
Originally Posted by Cd View Post
Wow ! Youv'e just built my dream car.

Now for the question everyone is wondering : How did you manage to sneak an "illegal" engine through customs and get it to pass inspection once installed in the Insight ?

Thanks
Actually US Customs and the EPA know all about what I'm doing. I filled out the required forms and got permission to import a Lupo 3L and perform the diesel conversion on my Insight. Let me tell you, reading the Clean Air Act is not a good time but if you're determined there's a way to do what you'd like and still operate within the framework of the law. Since I don't have the deep pockets that Uncle Sam does I thought it best to comply with regulations or find exceptions when possible to stay out of the Federal court system.

There are some who look at the project and wonder what the big deal is since we only swapped an engine. The big deal is working your way through all the details necessary to make the swap happen in the first place. Operating as private individuals makes the details quite challenging.

Best wishes,
Jake
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