I just discovered that the air pumps are not running on my 87 454. I was thinking of doing exhaust work. Should I try to restore the air system or remove it completely. I am in Massachusetts. It seems the belts were removed and the air pipes are also shot. This was a medical lab so it didn't travel far. Don't want to pollute but would like to find a balance between a choked engine and an efficient engine. Thanks Lloyd

Lloyd, are you in or near a smog check area? Like most bureaucracies, they tend to expand.

The AIR system is not really a problem. It has no appreciable effect on performance or economy, so there is no compelling reason to remove it. The only compelling reasons to restore the system are clean air and smog legalities (either for you or at resale).

Once the pumps are disconnected, they will freeze up. Guaranteed. And it sounds like yours have.

Since you are considering exhaust work do you mean headers? If so, I would suggest you buy the headers with AIR fittings and connect them to the dead pumps or cap them off. That will leave your options open should you later decide to be legal and non-polluting.

Thanks Bill. That's what I was thinking I guess I just needed some guidance.