Originally Posted by wstar

The OP is in TX. As far as local emissions regulations go, even in the big cities with stricter rules, installing aftermarket HFCs (which are emissions functional, not just some empty shell) is perfectly fine.

As far as the feds go: the EPA regs are about improper catalytic convertors. You can install aftermarket converters and still be in compliance with the EPA. They just have to be correct for the car in question and be fully functional, and carry an EPA designation on them. I think it's safe to assume major manufacturers aren't churning out non-compliant HFCs, because even *selling* such an HFC is worth a $25K fine per unit to the mfg, if you go read the EPA docs. If in doubt, I guess you could ask the mfg?

Either way, HFCs are a common upgrade performed by lots of shops all over Houston, and you can get a state inspection with them just fine (and I don't mean with some under the table ******** - they'll pass anywhere in the state randomly).