The reason for the lengthy test was the engine conversion. "A '93 car fitted with a '99 engine needs to be tested with the Cat emissions test, because I have to test to whichever is older and as both are of Cat age, a Cat test is what I'm doing" says Mr MOT.
Armed with page 9 of the testers handbook (thanks to Mr Moooore) that states "if no exact match is found in the analyser database or emissions book, carry out a pre-Cat test", I explain otherwise. He involved 3 other testers (who agreed with him) and eventually phoned their MOT helpline, who after much head scratching, told him I was right and the car was to be tested with a pre-Cat test.
This took 1hr 30mins before he started testing!
Over the next 1hr 15mins he went to town on my car, (I can only assume) to fail it on something.
The result, one MOT pass with an advisory for a very slight exhaust blow on a clamped joint.
It may of taken nearly 3hrs (and there were 2 other MOTs waiting to be done) and a little heated discussion, but the M44 touring is on the road
So thank you Brian, I owe you a beer
