I have a 1986 Jeep Cherokee w/2.8L V6 and I removed an Emission part from the drivers side exhaust manifold. Its the Air Valve and it was already rusted at the fittings and were leaking out pretty good which contributed to the engine running rough and were so loose it was barely hanging on. I just had to wiggle the valve enough times and all 3 tubes came apart. I plugged the 3 holes with bolts and they sealed up pretty good. I also removed the long hose that went across the engine to another valve and plugged that hole. My question is if this is safe to do this? The engine is more responsive but will this cause problems with the Air Pump? The other side is in good condition but I was wondering if I should plug those also to balance the systems out? If I have both sides plugged would this cause the Air Pump to be pumping against a "dead head" more or less? Sorry for all the questions. In Minnesota we do not have Emissions checks anymore. Any help would be appreciated. Pic below.

 

I had something similar on my blazer and did what you did but I plugged all the holes and took off the air pump. Mine ran better also and passed New Jersey inspection too. You may want someone with that motor to answer your post before you do it just to make sure...Tj

 

Bump

 

First concern would be what are the local smog laws.. Some places just sniff, some do a visual inspection. If you are in a visual inspection area, you will fail if all the smog parts are missing.

 

No emissions checks in Minnesota anymore.