We bought a 1997 Mauck MSV mini bus that dosen't have the required smog equipment.

I am the owner of a Limousine co. in Hemet Ca, we bought this bus that was made in OHIO by Mr. Mauck. When they were first make Allen Jackson and George Foreman were the first to buy these as tour buses for there business. Later they were put into service as city buses. Because these were custom specialty vehicles made from Ford and GM parts they had a smog system that was different from the normal systems, however it worked. We took this bus to get a smog test and was referred to a smog station for inspection. We were told that the bus can not be operated in California, what can we do? I have $50,000.00 in this bus and I will be forced to close by business. This is not fare, if I were on welfare I would get goverment help but because I work for a living I am out of luck. Please please advise me of what I can do.

Answer:

Sound like a terrible situation to be in. We understand your concern. Unfortunately however at this point unless the seller is willing to buy this bus back from you your only option is to bring the engine emissions system up to compliance for as cheap as possible. This would mean determining the engine make and model the bus is equipped with and purchase & install the emission components which the California version of that engine has... assuming the California version for that engine exists. You'll need to contact the maker.

posted by SmogTips Support