'76 air pump(?)

Just took my '76 Spider (iniezione) to get emissions tested here in sunny Arizona. I'm told that the Feds say that it was originally fitted with an air system (air pump?) and that it was missing. Flunked! I had no idea this car ever had one. I now have to either figure out how to refit one or find convincing proof that their information is incorrect. I'm anxious to get it on the road and have some topless fun. Anyone out there ever come across this? If so, any insights? Please.
Thanks in anticipation.

Never heard of that,then again I have a Euro version.Could be the airconditioning,only the later models were fitted with those.
Regards

Some of the older Lancias had them I believe to comply with your exhaust emission regulations? Same stablemate, perhaps?:

There is a reasonable amount of information around for the export model Lancias regarding the air pump, EGR system, fuel tank carbon packed canister, and special ignition distributor, I believe?:

The air pump was a fiddle to get around the emission regs that started in California in the '70s. I think it worked when the engine was cold by pumping air into the manifold thus diluting the gases. I've not seen one on an Alfa but the ones I have seen on Jags have a belt driven pump on the engine feeding air via pipes into the inlet ports, the system also consists of various valves to cut off the supply when no longer needed. The egr system and carbon canister were added to the system later as the regs got more strict. Sounds like a bit of research might be the order of the day to find out if your car had it because it was a California car or because Arizona cars had it by '76. Best of luck with it.
By the way California Jags had catalysts as well by then with an extra speedo cable wich drove a hidden "catalyst counter". You might look for evidence of of that too which would confirm it as a california car.

Working from 35 year memory here so don't take all as definite fact!

Well done AF.: The Lancia air pumps were driven by the camshaft, is that about correct?:

Also NSU RO80 rotary passed so much unburnt fuel that the later models had an air pump into the exhaust system, sort of afterburner. If caught in traffic the pipe would melt the LH carpets.

We need to try and assist our American friend with sourcing something I guess, if he is able to fit an after thought modification, that will comply?:

Thanks for the feedback so far. There is a door plate riveted on that does specifically say that this car, manufactured in 3/76, meets all U.S.E.P.A. regs except California, non-catalyst. If that helps kindle any additional thoughts. Thx.

Reference is made specifically for the Californian requirements, for some Beta models, so perhaps some of the ones that were exported may be available to cannibalise, if you are able to adapt the parts to fit?:

Unfortunately drews, your 1976 49 State version Spider was indeed originally equipped with an AIR (Air Injection Reactor) pump. It's purpose is to pump air (O2) into the exhaust manifold to facilitate the burning of unburned hydrocarbons left over from the normal combustion process. If you PM me your email address, I'll send you the 1976 MY Alfa issued Engine Management manual for your Spider.
Most of the airpumps mysteriously fell off when the warranty expired so there should be some around.

Pretty good memory there, AF!

I have an AIR pump, I used it on my 77 spider to get it through Aircare here. Most of the pumps ended up in the garbage. I had a new cat put on and passed the test just before I sold her. I didn't need to use the air pump.

That's interesting classicgal. Mine passed the emissions test, but they flunked it because of "missing equipment." What's also interesting (and frustrating) is that the previous two times this car was tested, the inspectors the "air evap system" was considerred non-applicable and passed it. For reference, with a stock exhaust, it has a CO output of 1.711 ppm. As papajam informed me, I need to put one on to get past this sharp eyed inspector. Would you please PM me if you're interested in parting with yours? Again, I want to thank those of you who took the time to educate me. This is my first "Italian Job," and I'd like to keep it.

I'm sure you can find one closer to home, maybe someone will just lend it to you. They are easy to put on and take off.
My brother needs the AIR pump so I have to keep it, sorry.
Check on Alfabb for more help in your neighbourhood.
good luck with your 76


edit, I see you're on BB already.

Decide to do an end-around of the emissions deal. I insured and registered it as a "collectible." Although the car's measured emissions are well within spec, I don't need to put the hardware on. This also opens up other options. This is my first Italian project and so far I am truely impressed with the ellegance of it's uncomplicated approach to motoring and something seems to stir within when I drive it. I think it's called "fun." I hope to get it back to '76 condition so that I can honestly experience the original intentions of the designers.

I probably have one......somewhere!

There is an air pump that goes on the front/passenger side I believe. I think you just have to have it mounted, not even hooked up. My old 78 Spider was missing one and failed the visual test but passed the sniffer, I moved.

If you want one let me know, I can look around my parts stash and I'm somewhat local.....

.

Thanks for the offer 86S, but I've re-registered mine as an "antique- collectible" which makes it hands off to the gov't nannies. Although I don't need to put a pump on, I'm pleased to know that it easily complies with the emissions standards and by keeping it in right shape will continue to do so. I did get a bit of a "tee-hee" when, after getting this registered, I bumped into one of the arrogant inspectors that had rejected my car and pointed at my plates.

Originally Posted by drews

I did get a bit of a "tee-hee" when, after getting this registered, I bumped into one of the arrogant inspectors that had rejected my car and pointed at my plates.

Bet that ticked him.... er, made his day.

Good show, drews!