betsycam

So, I took the truck to a station that said they could do smogs on diesels. The technician spent an hour only to tell me that the computer could not communicate with the truck's, and to try it at another station - if that failed then maybe the truck's computer needed service.

This was in San Mateo, CA. Anyone have such a problem in CA? Any recommendations for a facility that can do this smog check successfully? I'd also like recommendations on a shop that works on these trucks, does a good job and doesn't rob you blind. I'm located on the Peninsula in the SF Bay Area, and anywhere from South San Francisco down to to Palo Alto would be fine.

Thanks in advance!

KATOOM

Unfortunately the code key trick wasnt until 2000 so you'll have to purchase or find a code reader to see if there's any codes. Saying that only if the smog tech found a code which was the reason your truck was unsmogable. But truly it sounds like the smog tech you you went to is unintelligent and has little to no knowledge of diesels and the diesel CA smog law. If your ECM and FPCM were not communicating with one another then your truck wouldnt run and if his computer isnt communicating with your computer then thats not your problem but his. He should have charged you zero for your trouble and his technical issue. All he needed to do is make sure there is no codes in your ECM and then go about with the routine smog inspection. As for your location, I used to live on the peninsula and I moved for good reason. Prius's are the common vehicle there and the chances of someone knowing about diesel's around there is probably going to be a effort. Maybe try Googleing performance diesel shops around you and asking them where to go.

Bob Mulry

Hi,

I live in Gilroy and ran my 1999 3500 CTD through smog with no problem.

Let me know if you want the phone number????????

Bob

Big Bird

IOD fuse... check it, I belive it supplies power to the OBDII port, that may be your issue.