Im originally from NH, just moved to NY and Im building up a 72 with high street performance in mind. I also intend to drive the car as often as possible. what kind of regulations and rules does NY have regarding original engines, performance, registration, etc.?

I guess Region 2's loss is Region 1 gain. Good luck on the move and the new home.
I don't know about regulations, but the Region 1 director, Peter, should be able to handle all those questions. Drop him an email at elcaminonyc@aol.com

Best of luck. Got any pics of your 3rd gen??

Each county has it's own regulations. For example I'm in Orange where there is no emmisions,but just a safety inspection. Meanwhile in the next counties over(Rockland,Westchester,ect.)all have full inspections with emmisions. I'm not sure what the ones are in your area. I'd just stop by any auto repair shop that offers vehicle inspection and ask what the policies are in that area.

yeah I reccently talked with a mechanic in my area and he said for Rensselaer county on a car as old as mine I had to meet no emissions requirements, including cats and mufflers!

In this part of NY, unless it's an 84 or newer, Nobody really cares!! I have a 73 Blazer thats Lifted up, running a fuel injected 454. Even though NY has a height restrictions. Nobody cares!! I have another blazer that I run in the summer without doors or the top. Never get bothered!! Your in the good part of NY!

Thats a good question!

I am going to run into problems with my 85 SS with its '70s 307 in it?

You might have a problem. The go by the year of the vehicle, not what year the engine is. Time to start suckin up to a shop mechanic!!

I'm in Nassau County, one of the strictest. They don't seem to care what you have for an engine or if it is original or not, what they test for is safety (lights, signlas, wipers, etc.) and emissions. I think emissions are only tested on vehicles before 1984. Vehicles after that date need to comply with the regs that were in effect at the time of manufacture.

Your best bet is to go to an inspection station and ask. They will tell you what you need to know.