I'm fighting with the State's safety & emission inspector, according to his book all 1978 Broncos came with cats. I thought only the "California models" came with them. An "Ole Timer" said the best way to tell was to look at the fuel filler neck and if was restricted to only accept unleaded, then it needed to have the cats.

Where can I find some official documentation that backs up my claim and that the State would accept? Or am I dazed and Confused?

Thanks Guys!

 

My 78 351M does not have a cat. The emmision sticker is still intact on the drivers side valve cover.

Bob

 

Buddy,
If you just bought the Bronco, then look at this:
http://www.smogcheck.ca.gov/stdPAge.asp?Body=/ActiveStns/pubtstqry.htm

"...How Do I Know If My Vehicle Needs A Smog Check?

The DMV will note on your vehicle's registration renewal notice whether a Smog Check is required to renew your California registration. In addition, an informational insert explaining the Smog Check Program requirements will be included in that mailing.

If you intend to sell a 1974 or newer vehicle, you are responsible by law to provide the buyer proof that the vehicle has passed a Smog Check inspection in the last 90 days. A passing Vehicle Inspection Report supplied by the Smog Check station should be provided to the buyer.

*Note: All year designations refer to the model year of the vehicle, as listed on the vehicle registration."
...
check your Smog check history here:
http://www.smogcheck.ca.gov/stdPAge.asp?Body=/ActiveStns/pubtstqry.htm

ask here:
DCA Consumer Information Center

(Open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays, except holidays)
(Open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday)

Answers general Smog Check consumer questions and complaints and helps identify locations of licensed Smog Check stations.
(800) 952-5210
...
btw, my old 78 Bronco didn't have cats or a pump;

and from: http://www.projectbronco.com/
"...The 1979 Bronco was basically a direct carry over from the 1978 models. The big difference for the 1979 model year was a full array of emissions equipment, including smog pumps and catalytic converters, that were now standard on all 1/2 ton trucks..."

 

JABU, the 78 Bronco did not require cats. The misunderstanding may be between the car and truck 351M's. The cars required them, trucks did not. The emmisions sticker on the driver's side valve cover is the best proof. It will say "non-catalyst". If yours is missing, you can get one from www.lmctruck.com.

 

My 79 351M has an air pump and a cat. I think 79 was the first year for the emissions stuff on Bronco's.

Bru
2002 F150 Super Crew
Black 4X4 Lariat
5.4 Engine Ford Chrome Bars

1979 Bronco 351M 75K orig.

 

Hey, I got a 78 Bronco, the engine had ben swapped from what I dont know, but it now has a 429SCJ. It didnt have cats or any emissions on ti when I took it through DEQ in Oregon and they didnt say anything. I had the motor rebuilt after I took it through DEQ because I blew it. They didnt put anything in the way of emissions back on it, but in Oregon you cant have a new exhaust put on without cats. Unles you live outside of the air restriction areas.
I would just leave the cats if you cant get around it, just break out the charcol filter inside so it looks like youre running cats, and everything will run nice and smooth

 

I have been through emissions testing several times with my '78 Bronco, without cats and have had no problems. I believe the '78 models were regular gas.