if you can get passed the visual your good. a LT and catted Y will pass emission no problem properly tuned.

 

Is $10,000 a CA state law? That blows.

The federal law is $2500 for individuals and $25,000 for shops. Never once in my life have I heard of any individuals being federally fined for this though. I highly doubt you'll EVER see feds actually getting involved in this stuff on an individual level. Way too many people and way too few resources. Shops however, may need to be concerned. The worst fines I've ever heard of for individuals have been $75 to $200 'improper exhaust' tickets depending on your state & county laws.....