So the very first obstacle in trying to get my car on the road is:

Living in California.

The guy that I bought it from put a nice K&N intake on, but it's not CARB approved, so I gotta find one that'll pass the visual inspection.

So -- what's good for an '86 300ZX Turbo and won't slow me down too much?

 

just put the stock airbox for the test then switch em after they are done.

 

That really the best way to go? Because -- man -- I have the _worst_ luck with cops.

 

and the k&n should be carb aproved do you have a pic of it?

 

Anything before the MAF does not need to be CARB approved. Even then most smog guys who give two ***** about an airfilter.

 

I don't have a picture right now, but I'm told there's supposed to be a sticker on it.

I know that realistically, the difference performance-wise between a stock and a modified intake is going to be practically nothing, but I'm still curious if anyone has any input or recommendations in that area.

 

it shouldn't be much of a problem look it up for your local laws if what hoov said is true some cities have different laws but he knows his stuff pretty well searchy my friend.

 

the worst thing that could happen would be fail.

otherwise, you shouldnt sweat, they dont pop your hood to check your emissions. cops dont pop your hood unless youre excessivle speeding(like 150 plus), or searching really hard for drugs. and even then, i havent met a cop who gave or would give two squats about my k&n filter, the hp and emissions difference is hardly an issue, and if anything, youll prolly be more feul/emmision efficient(hasnt been proven) with an aftermarket intake filter.