Pierce Gets Smog Test Training Equipment

Pierce College was one of 18 community colleges statewide to be given the latest technology in smog-checking systems, and with it the ability to train smog technicians to implement the new, stricter laws going into effect next year.

Since early October, the college’s automotive program has used Smog Check II computerized equipment to familiarize currently licensed technicians with it so they will be ready when the new regulations become mandatory in March.

“This will enable us to continue to teach the most up-to-date information to our students,” said Bonnie Caruso, a vocational education coordinator who co-wrote the grant application to receive the equipment from the California Bureau of Automotive Repair.

The 1997 dynamometer and emission analyzer, which is more precise than equipment currently used throughout the state, measures the nitrous oxide and hydrogen emissions a car produces, said Tom Rosdahl, a Pierce automotive instructor.

Although the equipment has been used in demonstrations during regular automotive classes, it primarily is used to retrain licensed technicians in the new methods .

Pierce officials said it is the only community college in the San Fernando Valley offering smog-check retraining classes, which the state has made mandatory for businesses to continue offering smog checks for vehicle license renewals.

Other private institutions and public schools in Southern California have purchased the dynamometer, which costs as much as $38,000.

“This represents our equipment budget for the next three years,” Rosdahl said.