Exhaust Question

[5.0 ED]

Just wanted to add that personal i have owned an several 6's and i never ran the rear resonator, and never got bothered about it, if you get pulled over, it'll be because you've cause it not cause of a slightly over limit exhaust system.

And for a 2nd note i had an EA with a 3inch straight thru mandrel bent system on it with just 1 muffler, the car was turbo'd and spent 50% off the time no turbo, it was 116db without the turbo and 92db with, and i only ever got pulled over cause i had done something, and even when it was 116db i did have one police officer ask me to start it and rev it and i did (very softly though) and he never picked it as being too loud.

[RG]

Originally Posted by naughtyfalcon

if it was illegal to remove the rear resonator why do they make an after market pipe for that specific reason,i have had it on the ea for near on 3 years and never had any problems with rego.

the cat and the main muffler are more than sufficient to do the job.

why make mountains out of mole hills when there is no point.

What???? Just because you can buy it doesn't make it legal.

The AU section is becoming more and more like the E series of old every day. Quite disappointing really.

[T-Pak Addict]

Originally Posted by 5.0whiteaughia

Well maybe you should look at making the rest of your car quieter then.

The legal limit is 90db measured at 1metre directly behind on 45 degree angle, and it has to be under from idle to 50% of your tacho reading. Not all AU 6's are the same, some are louder than others, just depends on the individual car. Some AU's have rocker gear that won't pass.

hahaha they do it different here..... they hold it at 3400rpm
if its above 90 its a defect.... but they will let you off if its marginally louder.


how much louder is it under full steam...... LOTS

[HLC]

one muffler + hot dog FTW.

my car is louddd but sounds good.

[nutter_x]

Originally Posted by HLC

one muffler + hot dog FTW.

my car is louddd but sounds good.

Well, nothing like opening a can of worms now...

I'm probably going to opt for something like HLC, cause that rattle i starting to me off. Can probably hear it more now that my boot is empty (swags and esky's are rather good sound deadeners it seems)

[V3RSAC3]

Originally Posted by Russell

What???? Just because you can buy it doesn't make it legal.

The AU section is becoming more and more like the E series of old every day. Quite disappointing really.

HERE, HERE!!

Jim don't worry about the stronzo, he clearly has no clue what he's on about ... if we ignore him, he'll forget that were here ... *stands completly still*

[SirHenry]

Originally Posted by Russell

What???? Just because you can buy it doesn't make it legal.

The AU section is becoming more and more like the E series of old every day. Quite disappointing really.

Absolute gem! I love it

[JoesAu]

Originally Posted by HLC

one muffler + hot dog FTW.

my car is louddd but sounds good.

one muffler + hotdog for sure, and decat sounds wicked

[T-Pak Addict]

Originally Posted by JoesAu

one muffler + hotdog for sure, and decat sounds wicked

thats what I got now..... sounds so good it must be illegal

[naughtyfalcon]

Originally Posted by V3RSAC3

HERE, HERE!!

Jim don't worry about the stronzo, he clearly has no clue what he's on about ... if we ignore him, he'll forget that were here ... *stands completly still*

mate get over your self,you obviously have a higher opinion of yourself than others do.

the fact is and most authorities will say the same is if an item is made to do a job then it is perfectly legal to fit or use it.as quoted by the RTA and NRMA.

how many people put after market turbo's in there cars,they according to your reasoning are illegal to,but they still do it.

and according to your reasoning fitting of headers or extractors would also be illegal,but how many people have and still fit them.

technically the fitting of manual transmissions to factory automatic vehicles is also illegal as it involves changing the vehicle from its original state of manufacture.

the fact is there are hundreds of ford i6's running around on the roads that have been modified is one way or another and as it stands most are still with in legal limits and pass rego with out a problem.

[RG]

Originally Posted by naughtyfalcon

mate get over your self,you obviously have a higher opinion of yourself than others do.

the fact is and most authorities will say the same is if an item is made to do a job then it is perfectly legal to fit or use it.as quoted by the RTA and NRMA.

how many people put after market turbo's in there cars,they according to your reasoning are illegal to,but they still do it.

and according to your reasoning fitting of headers or extractors would also be illegal,but how many people have and still fit them.

technically the fitting of manual transmissions to factory automatic vehicles is also illegal as it involves changing the vehicle from its original state of manufacture.

the fact is there are hundreds of ford i6's running around on the roads that have been modified is one way or another and as it stands most are still with in legal limits and pass rego with out a problem.

How about before making such statements you investigate the facts first.

[naughtyfalcon]

mate already have.

[T-Pak Addict]

Originally Posted by Russell

The AU section is becoming more and more like the E series of old every day. Quite disappointing really.

thats because alot of the E-series guys have upgraded LOL

maybe its time you upgraded to get away from us tools........

[RG]

Originally Posted by naughtyfalcon

mate already have.

Obviously you haven't or else you would know that it is actually not legal to use a straight through tailpipe in place of the factory resonator as you are not allowed to have an aftermarket exhaust with fewer mufflers than what was fitted at the factory. That's just one example. Just because something is made to do a job does not make it legal, you can buy window tint that blocks out 100% light. Not legal. Taillight tint can be bought from most auto stores but it is not legal to tint the tail light on a road vehicle.

Continually spouting off rubbish will not make you any friends here, it will only make your stay here short.

Originally Posted by AU FAlcon 99

thats because alot of the E-series guys have upgraded LOL

maybe its time you upgraded to get away from us tools........

Nothing to upgrade to though lol. :

[naughtyfalcon]

MODIFIED VEHICLE GUIDELINES 2006
TECHNICAL GUIDELINES FOR
AIR AND NOISE EMISSION REQUIREMENTS
FOR MODIFIED IN-SERVICE VEHICLES


10. Exhaust systems
Modifications to exhaust systems are permitted,
providing the modifications do not conflict with
other requirements of this document.
On vehicles fitted with one or more catalytic
converters, all the exhaust gas must flow through
the converters at all times when a vehicle is used on
the road.
If modifying or replacing an exhaust system, make
sure that the catalytic converter(s) and any sensors
are positioned in the same exhaust flow location as
with the original system. For example, some
manufacturers put the catalytic converter close to
the exhaust manifold so that it heats up very quickly
when the vehicle is started. This enables the
converter to function almost immediately. If placed
further down the exhaust system, the converter
cannot function as quickly and will allow
uncontrolled exhaust emissions to be emitted.
11. Noise limits
The vehicle must not exceed the exhaust noise
limits applicable to its date of manufacture. It is an
offence to use, own or modify a vehicle so that it
exceeds the maximum permitted noise level when
the vehicle is driven on the road. If there is any
doubt whether the vehicle exceeds the maximum
limit, it is recommended that it be taken to an EPAapproved
noise tester to be measured.
Maximum noise levels for stationary vehicles are not
to exceed those in the following tables.

[RG]

Post up only part of the regs, that'll get your point across.

[naughtyfalcon]

I N T R O D U C T I O N
Motor vehicles have a major impact on air quality
and noise. Vehicle manufacturers are required to
produce new vehicles that have low air and noise
emissions levels.
While recognizing that, as a vehicle ages, the level
of emissions will rise, our aim is to ensure that inservice
motor vehicle emissions are kept as low as
possible through proper and regular maintenance.
Many owners customise their vehicles.
Modifications can range from simply changing
wheels, through to modifying engines or even
building individual vehicles.
Guidelines on what modifications are acceptable
have been developed to permit modifications to be
carried out legally yet prevent the benefits of vehicle
air and noise emission standards being eroded.
It is neither reasonable nor practical to prohibit
vehicle modifications altogether.
Owners have a choice in the extent of the
modification, the nature of the modification and
what components are used. When modifications are
planned, owners must ensure that emissions will
not be increased and that the vehicle will comply
with the vehicle-related provisions of the
Environment Protection Act 1970 and with the
Environment Protection (Vehicle Emissions)
Regulations 2003.
The modifications permitted below have been
assessed by EPA – through tests, measurements or
engineering reason – not to increase emissions
beyond what could be expected of a normal
unmodified vehicle of a similar age.
The vehicles that are the subject of this guideline
are primarily those constructed with emission
controls – in other words, vehicles manufactured
after 1 July 1976 – although some general
requirements (for example, noise) will apply to all
vehicles.
The Environment Protection Act 1970 (the Act)
requires various parties – including designers,
manufacturers, sellers, owners and drivers – to do or
not do certain things with respect to air and noise
emissions from motor vehicles. These requirements
are spelt out in more detail in the Environment
Protection (Vehicle Emissions) Regulations 2003
(the Regulations). Both the Act and the Regulations
state that anyone who fails to comply with a
requirement is guilty of an offence and liable to a
Type of modification Page
1. Intake systems 4
2. Fuel systems 5
3. Engines 5
4. Turbochargers/superchargers 6
5. LPG conversion 7
6. Positive crankcase ventilation 8
7. Engine management systems 8
8. Auxiliary and replacement fuel tank 8
9. Exhaust manifolds 9
10. Exhaust systems 9
11. Noise limits 9
TECHNICAL GUIDELINES FOR AIR AND NOISE EMISSION
REQUIREMENTS FOR MODIFIED I N -SERVICE VEHICLES
Information Bulletin
3
penalty, with the maximum penalty for the most
serious offences being 240 penalty units (over
$240,000).
However, this publication is NOT a comprehensive
guide to the motor vehicle requirements in the Act
and the Regulations. It is a practical guide to what
modifications are permitted under the Act and the
Regulations.
This publication does NOT deal with the roadworthy
or road safety requirements under the Road Safety
Act 1986 or its associated regulations. A roadworthy
inspection is a check of the vehicle to ensure that all
safety-related components have not worn or
deteriorated to the extent that the vehicle is unsafe
for normal road use. A roadworthy inspection only
covers safety-related items and is not a check of the
overall mechanical reliability or general condition of
the vehicle. It should not be relied upon to indicate
compliance with the Regulations.
In this document:
Act means the Environment Protection Act
1970
Regulations means the Environment
Protection (Vehicle Emissions) Regulations
2003
ADR means the Australian Design Rules.
G E N E R A L R E Q U I R EME N T S
Persons responsible for vehicles must ensure that
all requirements of the Act and the Regulations are
complied with. The ‘emission control’ technical
requirements are set out in regulations 7–11, 13–15,
17 and 24. Those regulations cover the following
aspects:
(a) visible exhaust emissions (regulation 7)
(b) carbon monoxide emission from spark
ignition engine propelled vehicles (r. 8)
(c) exhaust emissions diesel engined vehicles
(r. 9)
(d) noise emission standards (r. 10)
(e) exhaust system construction (r. 13)
(f) idle mixture control construction (r. 14)
(g) maintenance of emission control equipment
(r. 15)
(h) labelling of motorcycles for noise (r. 17)
(i) maintenance of unleaded requirements
(r. 24).
In addition, regulations 18–23 contain offence
provisions, setting out the penalties for failure to
comply with various technical requirements. The Act
also contains offence provisions.
These Guidelines have been written with the general
aim of assisting owners of vehicles that are in use to
comply with the technical requirement regulations,
and the specific aim of assisting those owners to
identify what – if any – modifications to their
vehicles can be made without falling foul of the
offence provisions in the Act and the Regulations.
Persons other than owners and users have
obligations too. For example, a person who installs,
removes, replaces or repairs noise-reducing
equipment on a motor vehicle must ensure that the
vehicle meets the requirement of regulation 10 when
TECHNICAL GUIDELINES FOR AIR AND NOISE EMISSION
REQUIREMENTS FOR MODIFIED I N -SERVICE VEHICLES
EPA Victoria
4
the installation, removal, replacement or repair is
complete.
The basic rule is that the use of non-original
equipment, aftermarket parts or systems as an addon,
auxiliary, or secondary part of a system is
permitted if their use does not adversely affect
emissions performance. The fitter and owner should
ensure that they have evidence that supports this.
Any modification is permitted provided that it can be
shown, by way of test1 or engineering reason, to
show that the modification would not be expected to
cause an increase in emissions beyond a similar,
unmodified vehicle.
All motor vehicles must also be safe; and any
repairs, work or modifications must be performed in
a professional manner.
D O C U M E N T A T I O N
In all cases the registered owner must be able to
provide, when required, documentary evidence to
show that the vehicle complies with any EPA
requirement as a result of the modification.
The date of manufacture is the date described on
the ‘built date’ plate on the chassis or described on
the compliance plate. In the case where these plates
do not exist, the date of manufacture may be one of
the following:
�� the date assigned by Vicroads
�� the date specified by the certifying engineer in
his or her report.
1 Test procedures used for demonstrating compliance
must be to the ADR applicable to the vehicle model. A
simple exhaust emission test at idle, steady speeds or
using an IM240 procedure is not acceptable.
M O D I F I E D P R O D U C T I O N V E H I C L E S
All parts, features and systems of the vehicle that
are not modified must continue to comply with all
EPA regulations applying to the vehicle at its original
date of manufacture.
Modified parts, components or systems must enable
the vehicle to comply with requirements that were
applicable at the date of manufacture of the original
vehicle.
The term ‘engine’ includes all engine-related
components, whether or not attached to the engine,
that can affect the emissions from the vehicle – for
example, catalytic converters, oxygen sensors,
thermal afterburners and engine management
systems.
The following list of modifications is not exhaustive,
nor does it cover every possible modification that
can affect emissions. Many of the changes
described below will also require certification or
approval by an appropriately approved engineer.
1. Intake systems
Intake systems are designed to ensure that the
correct air/fuel ratio is available to the engine for the
cleanest burn to minimise exhaust emissions.
Systems that provide excess air or fuel can create
high exhaust emissions from the vehicle. Fuel or
other hydrocarbon vapour that escapes as
evaporative emissions can lead to the formation of
photochemical smog.
Replacement air cleaners are permitted provided
that they have all connections and systems present
on the original air cleaner and operate in an
identical manner.
TECHNICAL GUIDELINES FOR AIR AND NOISE EMISSION
REQUIREMENTS FOR MODIFIED I N -SERVICE VEHICLES
Information Bulletin
5
(a) Open element or pod type air cleaners on
carburetted vehicles are not permitted.
(b) Dry element pod type air cleaners are
permitted on EFI vehicles. Oiled, oil-soaked or
fluid-treated elements are not permitted. Any
sensors integral to the original system must
be retrofitted to the same approximate
location.
(c) Intercoolers that are larger than standard or
have a different mounting location or are
added where none were originally fitted, are
permitted only if no other changes to the
intake system have been made. In other
words, you may have a pod filter or
modified/added intercooler, but not both.
Any sensors integral to the original intercooler
or intake system must be retrofitted and be in
the correct location.
Note: aftermarket turbocharging kits that
include intercoolers that have been type
tested (ADR certified) for the model vehicle
are permitted. Documentary proof must be
retained to substantiate this.
(d) Airflow meters must not be disconnected.
They may be relocated, provided they are
functionally equivalent and are in the same
approximate location.
(e) Modified or aftermarket plenum chambers or
throttle bodies are not permitted.
2. Fuel systems
A fuel system that provides the incorrect amount of
fuel to the engine or intake system will create high
levels of exhaust emissions and will probably cause
an increase in fuel consumption.
Alternative, replacement or aftermarket carburettors
are permitted if they are of equivalent specification
to the original equipment, including, for example,
flow rates, air/fuel metering, needle size etc. The
carburettor must also provide for all external
connections and systems present on the original
carburettor.
Alternative, replacement or aftermarket EFI systems
are not permitted unless ADR certified for that
particular vehicle make and model.
Extra or larger fuel injectors are not permitted.
Variable fuel pressure regulators are not permitted
unless fitted by the manufacturer as original
equipment.
3. Engines
Vehicle engines are designed by the manufacturer of
the vehicle to meet stringent exhaust and
evaporative emission standards set out in the ADRs.
Changing the engine of a vehicle must not result in
more pollution being emitted than would be emitted
by the original engine when properly maintained.
The following engine replacement options are
available.
(a) Replacement of an original engine with a new,
reconditioned or used engine of the same
general specification is permitted. This
engine must be designed to meet the original
engine’s emission standards. All emission
control devices and systems must be fitted.
For example, you can install a new,
TECHNICAL GUIDELINES FOR AIR AND NOISE EMISSION
REQUIREMENTS FOR MODIFIED I N -SERVICE VEHICLES
EPA Victoria
6
reconditioned or secondhand Commodore VN
6-cylinder engine into your VN Commodore.
(b) Replacement of an original engine by an
engine that was offered as an option for that
vehicle make and model at the time of
manufacture of the vehicle is permitted. The
replacement engine must be of the same
specification and in its original configuration
including all emissions-related devices or
systems. For example, Ford provided several
engine options for the XE Falcon, so the 3.3
litre 6-cylinder engine can be replaced by a
larger V8 from the same model range.
(c) Replacement of an original spark ignition
engine by a diesel engine is permitted.
(d) Replacement of an original engine with an
engine that was designed to meet more
stringent requirements is permitted provided
that the replacement engine is in its original
configuration including all emissions-related
devices or systems. For example you can
replace the engine of your 1987 VL Holden
Commodore with an engine made in 1997 for
a VS Commodore.
(e) Replacement of an original engine by any
other engine is permitted provided that:
i. if the original engine was originally fitted
with emission control devices or systems,
then the replacement engine must be of
similar or later age and must be designed
to meet the same or more stringent
emission standards (plus the emission
control devices or systems applicable to
that replacement engine must be fitted
and operate in the correct manner)
and
ii. The mass of the vehicle must be no more
than 114 kg greater than the mass of the
vehicle from which the replacement
engine originated.
An acceptable example would be the fitting of
a V6 engine from a VS Commodore passenger
car into a 1996 Toyota Hilux originally fitted
with 4-cylinder engine. An unacceptable
example would be the fitting of a VS
Commodore V6 engine into a larger, heavier
vehicle such as a 1996 Toyota Landcruiser.
(f) Replacement of an original engine by any
other engine may be acceptable if it can be
shown by way of test or appropriate
engineering reasoning that the emissions are
equal to or less than could be expected from
the original vehicle.
4. Turbochargers/superchargers
Turbocharging or supercharging an engine has the
potential to increase the power of the engine.
Designing a system that meets the ADR is a complex
process. A poorly designed or fitted system will
significantly increase exhaust emissions, increase
fuel consumption and reduce engine life.
An emission-controlled engine may be turbocharged
or supercharged only if:
�� the conversion is unconditionally endorsed in
writing by the vehicle manufacturer as being
ADR compliant
or
�� the type conversion has ADR certification
or
TECHNICAL GUIDELINES FOR AIR AND NOISE EMISSION
REQUIREMENTS FOR MODIFIED I N -SERVICE VEHICLES
Information Bulletin
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�� the converted vehicle is in all respects identical
to the production turbocharged/supercharged
vehicle.
Fitment must not interfere with the effective
operation of any other emission control system or
device, including the evaporative emission system.
Variable turbocharger boost valves (‘boost
controllers’) or other means of altering boost levels
are not permitted unless part of an original
manufacturer’s fitment.
‘Blow off’ (‘pop off’) valves must be plumbed back
into the system. Atmospheric venting is not
permitted.
External wastegates are not permitted.
The onus is on the fitter of the
turbocharger/supercharger and the owner of the
vehicle to meet the above conditions.
See also 1. Intake systems above regarding
intercoolers.
5. LPG conversion
Although publicised as a clean fuel, LPG (Liquefied
petroleum gas) still produces exhaust pollution.
Accordingly, LPG vehicles must have an
appropriately designed and fitted system; otherwise
they can produce high levels of pollution.
Conversion of a vehicle to operate on LPG must be
performed to the appropriate Australian Standards,
and VicRoads and Automotive Alternative Fuels
Registration Board ‘Code of Practice’ requirements.
(a) An engine can be converted to operate on LPG
only (not dual fuel – see 5(b) below) as
follows.
�� For vehicles built prior to 1 February 1986
and originally operating on leaded
petrol, there are no exhaust emission
requirements other than a maximum CO
concentration at idle of 4.5 %. (Note that
General requirements – see page 3
above – must still be met.)
�� For vehicles built after 1 February 1986,
or originally operating on unleaded
petrol, catalytic converters and
associated emission and engine control
systems of vehicles must remain
operational. (See 5(c) below.)
Vehicles converted to operate on LPG only
are not required to retain the evaporative
emission control system (carbon canister).
The fuel tank and/or fuel lines must be
removed or otherwise permanently
disabled.
(b) An engine can be converted to operate on
both petrol and LPG (dual-fuel) provided that,
when the vehicle is operated on petrol, it
complies with the petrol-related regulations.
If any emission control systems, evaporative
emission systems and devices or engine
control and management systems (including
catalytic converters and oxygen sensors) were
originally fitted, they must remain
operational.
Allowances are made for minor air cleaner
and carburetion/injection modifications
required to fit the conversion. A heated air
intake system, if fitted, can be removed. The
original air cleaner may be removed and
replaced by a new unit if it is compatible with
TECHNICAL GUIDELINES FOR AIR AND NOISE EMISSION
REQUIREMENTS FOR MODIFIED I N -SERVICE VEHICLES
EPA Victoria
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and recommended by the system
manufacturer. These allowances recognise
that dual-fuel vehicles operate for the
majority of the time on gas.
(c) All spark ignition engined passenger vehicles
manufactured after 1 February 1986 must
meet the exhaust emission limits regardless
of whether the vehicle is operating on LPG or
petrol. It is the responsibility of the fitter to
ensure that the system fitted complies with
this requirement. On vehicles fitted with a
three-way catalytic converter, a closed-loop
feedback system would be required to enable
the catalytic converter and oxygen sensor to
operate correctly. If the original engine
management system is operationally
unsuitable, an equivalent LPG system must
be fitted that enables the vehicle to meet the
equivalent emission standards.
Owners should ensure they have documentary
evidence that the LPG conversion system fitted to
the vehicle does not affect emissions performance.
The manufacturer or distributor of such parts or
systems should supply this evidence in writing,
based on their own testing efforts and engineering
judgement.
6. Positive crankcase ventilation (PCV)
PCV systems return oil and fuel vapours from the
engine block to the engine intake system for
combustion in a similar manner to the evaporative
emissions control system. This reduces the levels of
hydrocarbons emitted from the vehicle.
‘Catch Cans’ must be plumbed back into the
vehicle’s control system. Atmospheric venting is not
permitted.
7. Engine management systems
An engine management system enables the engine
to function with minimum emissions under a wide
range of operating conditions. It also uses a variety
of sensors to optimise combustion by altering how
the engine operates, thus maximising fuel economy,
engine power and engine life. A system that is not
designed specifically for the engine it is fitted to is
likely to increase emissions, reduce engine power,
have poor fuel economy and reduce the life of the
engine.
Non-original electronic chips or computers, whether
fitted as a direct replacement or in a ‘piggy-back’
configuration, are not permitted to be used in an
engine management system unless it can be
demonstrated that their installation and use allows
the vehicle to meet the appropriate ADR. They must
also be sealed or otherwise constructed so as not to
be reprogrammable.
8. Auxiliary and replacement fuel tank
Evaporative emissions (petrol vapour or
‘hydrocarbons’) are a significant component of
pollution and are a cause of photochemical smog.
Most fuel systems have a carbon canister that traps
this fuel vapour and returns it to the engine or fuel
tank for use.
Auxiliary or replacement fuel tanks are to be
constructed and installed to the appropriate safety
standards and regulatory requirements.
TECHNICAL GUIDELINES FOR AIR AND NOISE EMISSION
REQUIREMENTS FOR MODIFIED I N -SERVICE VEHICLES
Information Bulletin
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Any additional or replacement petrol tanks must
incorporate facilities for the control of evaporative
emissions. They must have the same connections
and facilities that are provided on the original tank.
The filler necks must be the correct size, and
labelled if required.
There must be sufficient capacity within the
evaporative emission control system to control
evaporative emissions from the auxiliary or
replacement tank. Provided an evaporative
emissions canister is fitted from a production
vehicle that has a total fuel capacity in excess of
your modified fuel capacity, this requirement would
be met.
9. Exhaust manifolds
Some exhaust manifolds (such as headers or
extractors) incorporate devices, sensors and
systems that enable the correct function of different
pollution control systems. If these are not
functioning, an increase in exhaust pollution can
occur.
Different exhaust manifolds are allowed, provided
that:
(a) they incorporate all provisions found on the
original manifold for the connection of
emission control devices and systems
(b) such devices and systems are fitted and
operate in the correct manner (exhaust
manifolds must not interfere with the correct
operation of any other emission control
devices or systems).
10. Exhaust systems
Modifications to exhaust systems are permitted,
providing the modifications do not conflict with
other requirements of this document.
On vehicles fitted with one or more catalytic
converters, all the exhaust gas must flow through
the converters at all times when a vehicle is used on
the road.
If modifying or replacing an exhaust system, make
sure that the catalytic converter(s) and any sensors
are positioned in the same exhaust flow location as
with the original system. For example, some
manufacturers put the catalytic converter close to
the exhaust manifold so that it heats up very quickly
when the vehicle is started. This enables the
converter to function almost immediately. If placed
further down the exhaust system, the converter
cannot function as quickly and will allow
uncontrolled exhaust emissions to be emitted.
11. Noise limits
The vehicle must not exceed the exhaust noise
limits applicable to its date of manufacture. It is an
offence to use, own or modify a vehicle so that it
exceeds the maximum permitted noise level when
the vehicle is driven on the road. If there is any
doubt whether the vehicle exceeds the maximum
limit, it is recommended that it be taken to an EPAapproved
noise tester to be measured.
Maximum noise levels for stationary vehicles are not
to exceed those in the following tables.
TECHNICAL GUIDELINES FOR AIR AND NOISE EMISSION
REQUIREMENTS FOR MODIFIED I N -SERVICE VEHICLES
EPA Victoria
10
Passenger vehicle (Other than a bus)
Date of manufacture Noise level
Before 1 November 1983 96 dB(A)
After 1 November 1983 90 dB(A)
Motorcycle or tricycle
Date of manufacture Noise level
Before 1 March 1985 100 dB(A)
After 1 March 1985 94 dB(A)
Trucks and buses
These are more complex. The maximum levels
are dependent on the vehicle's gross mass,
engine type, exhaust height and date of
manufacture. These levels are set out in the
Regulations.
It is an offence to own or use a vehicle fitted with a
temporary defeat device, inlet port restrictor,
exhaust port restrictor or temporary noise reduction
device. These devices, when fitted to the exhaust
system, can temporarily and easily change or vary
the level of noise emitted from the exhaust.
Examples include variable exhaust restrictors, cutouts,
bypasses, adjustable/variable/sliding
openings on mufflers, restrictive or temporary insert
plates and steel wool.
F U R T H E R I N F O R M A T I O N
This publication is intended to provide general
guidance only and does not cover every possible
modification that can affect vehicle emissions. EPA
is not responsible for any damage that could arise
from modifications to any motor vehicle. No reader
should act on the basis of any matter contained in
this publication without first obtaining specific
professional mechanical advice.
For individual circumstances and advice concerning
your vehicle you should contact a member of the
Vehicle Assessment Signatory Scheme (VASS)
operated by VicRoads. Contact VicRoads or see its
website at www.vicroads.vic.gov.au for a list of the
current signatories.
In the event of a breach of the Act or the
Regulations, EPA reserves the right to take
enforcement action in accordance with EPA’s
enforcement policy should such action be required.

[RG]

The fitter and owner should
ensure that they have evidence that supports this.
Any modification is permitted provided that it can be
shown, by way of test1 or engineering reason, to
show that the modification would not be expected to
cause an increase in emissions beyond a similar,
unmodified vehicle.

Hmmmm

(b) Dry element pod type air cleaners are
permitted on EFI vehicles. Oiled, oil-soaked or
fluid-treated elements are not permitted. Any
sensors integral to the original system must
be retrofitted to the same approximate
location.

You can buy a K&N filter and it is not legal according to this.

(e) Modified or aftermarket plenum chambers or
throttle bodies are not permitted.

I can buy an aftermarket TB but it says here it's not legal.

Thanks for proving my point.

[Dark Horse]

That's all well and nice posting about the EPA requirements for Victoria naughtyfalcon, but you're completely off topic. The original poster is in Narrandera and last time I looked, that was in New South Wales.

[naughtyfalcon]

south australia

EXHAUST SYSTEMS AND NOISE
Replacement Exhaust Systems
Extractors and aftermarket exhaust systems may be fitted provided that the sound levels specified in the Road
Traffic (Vehicle Standards) Rules 1999 are not exceeded. On vehicles required to comply with ADRs 26, 27 or
27A, extractors may be fitted provided that any emission control devices, which were originally fitted to the
exhaust system, are re-connected and operative. Vehicles required to comply with ADR 37 or 37/.. may be
fitted with extractors or after market exhaust systems provided that the catalytic converter is retained and any
emission control equipment fitted to the original exhaust is incorporated in the replacement item.
Exhaust Outlets
For vehicles manufactured prior to July 1988 the requirements are not specific, however, vehicles submitted to
Transport SA will be acceptable if:-
a. The exhaust outlet exits beyond the last door or window opening on the side or rear of the vehicle;
b. The exhaust outlet is as close as possible to the outer edge of the vehicle but not outside or underneath
the vehicle;
c. The exhaust system, if contactable, is adequately shielded and any sharp or hazardous projections are
suitably treated.
For vehicles manufactured on or after 1st July 1988
The exhaust must exit to the rear or on the right hand side and extend at least 40 millimetres beyond the
furthermost outboard or rearmost joint of the floor pan that is not continuously welded or permanently sealed.
No exhaust outlet is to extend beyond the perimeter of the vehicle when viewed in plan.
The exhaust outlet, if to the side of the vehicle, shall discharge to the right hand side of the vehicle and
downwards at an angle to the horizontal of not less than 15 degrees and not more than 45 degrees.
The exhaust outlet, if to the rear, shall discharge at not less than 10 degrees above or 45 degrees below the
horizontal.
Exhaust Noise
The exhaust systems on vehicles manufactured on or after 1st January, 1974 must at the time of first registration
comply with ADR 28 - Motor Vehicle Noise.
In service all vehicles must comply with the Road Traffic (Vehicle Standards) Rules 1999 Part 10 Division 3 –
Noise Emissions.
For passenger cars, derivates and panel vans manufactured on or after 1 January 1983 the stationary noise level
when tested must not exceed 90 dB(A).

[RG]

Ummm naughtyfalcon Narrandera is in NSW I believe.

[naughtyfalcon]

um der i know exactly where it is,,i am also getting informaton for members of other states as well to finish this once and for all.

if its here in writting it can't be argued with can it.

[naughtyfalcon]

for new south wales members the word from the rta technical service is as follows.

modifications can be done to the exhaust system and are legal provided that the owner of the vehicle has the new system approved by an rta listed engineer.

this does not apply to manifolds,headers or extractors etc as they have no effect on the emissions.

so our are systems are legally allowed on the proviso that they are given approval.

but because there are so many on the roads the rule is not enforced unless you bring undue attention to yourself.

this for all vehicles produced after 1986 or there abouts

so i hope this ends the ****ing contest once and for all.

information available here.

Vehicle technical inquiries including Authorized Inspection Stations
1300 137 302

[V3RSAC3]

that sux :( i thought my come back was golden

[HLC]

oh and on that note,

Just because things are illegal, doesn't mean that they cant be bought/sold.

[naughtyfalcon]

Originally Posted by HLC

oh and on that note,

Just because things are illegal, doesn't mean that they cant be bought/sold.

thats it aye,they tell you its ok no worries but they don't tell you you need an engineers certificate to make it legal.

[HLC]

Originally Posted by naughtyfalcon

thats it aye,they tell you its ok no worries but they don't tell you you need an engineers certificate to make it legal.

even then

"use at your own discretion" covers everything.

[T-Pak Addict]

didnt know about the oiled filters..... I thought it was just exposed filters....
guess my unifilter is an illegal mod then... that sucks

[RG]

Originally Posted by AU Falcon 99

didnt know about the oiled filters..... I thought it was just exposed filters....
guess my unifilter is an illegal mod then... that sucks

Same here, I didn't really think they'd like my 9" K&N pod anyway for some reason lol. Lucky it is hidden in a box.

[5.0 ED]

That guidelines for vic is different to one i have, strange, anyway in section 8 modifications it states that with extractors for example, if they are sold as for that exact vehicle that they are allowed. Im pretty sure that say pacemaker for example, has to test there extractors on that car before they can market them as extractors for AU 6 cylinder falcon. I could be completely wrong but that was my understanding, and i may mention that i haven't read the guidelines posted on here to see exactly what they says, i couldn't be stuffed.