I suppose my initial question was one of curiosity rather than information searching, since I've decided to fit a totally compliant RF/Motec/302 engine in my car. This engine is complient in its 320 HP form, but they can also supply "after-market" components, such as crossover pipes, to give it more horses.
My understanding though is that trying to get compliance on a non-complied engine yourself can be quite hit-and-miss... and if you miss several times, then the costs can be significant.
Also, again my understanding, if you replace ANY component from a previously compliant engine with a different component (and that could also include something as minor as the brand of air-filter) then that engine is no longer considered compliant. You would then be back to the hit-and-miss situation again.
Now, the question you might ask though is "how would they know?". The answer is, good question... but consider the trouble that you might invite if you present an engine as pre-complied and they find that it's not.
Having said all that, I would love somebody out there to add to this thread and tell me that I'm totally wrong and that it’s not really that hard.
Now, of course the irony of all this, is that once your car and engine have been approved, you can take it home and quite legally modify it to the max - as long as it still runs on pump ULP.
PS. This is from the perspective of a Victorian. Legislation in other states, such as Queensland, is more sympathetic.
[ May 16, 2002: Message edited by: Chris Liokos ]