TwistedMinis
+1y
I don't think you should need to go to a referee over a fuel cell. That's usually for motor swaps. But I could be wrong. I think you just need to make friends with a smog tech and bring him a 6 pack or something. The guy next to my shop won't bend the rules at all for anyone, but he said as long as a fuel cell has a stock gas cap and can pass the pressure test then there should be no issue. If the cell is covered it might better your chances.
Also try a fresh shop. The one you already went to is jaded to the idea and will not change their mind at this point.