C4 Tech/Performance L98 Corvette and LT1 Corvette Technical Info, Internal Engine, External Engine

96 Opti Spark

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Old Nov 4, 2007 | 03:13 PM
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Default 96 Opti Spark

I am in the process of completing some mods on my engine and have decided to take a look at the inside of my opti spark distributor for any wear, it appears to have several torx type head screws holding the case together, does anyone know what type of tool is required to remove these screws, there also appears to be slight movement on the bearings, side to side, is this normal ? car has only done 10k miles so it should be ok
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Old Nov 4, 2007 | 04:31 PM
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They are reverse torx bits. I found one of the two I used, it was an E5 Torx, from Snap On. I think the other fell out of the little bag I had it in and it was an E4 torx. The E5 works with my hand turning it on one of my broken optis, but I think the E4 torx fits better.
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Old Nov 4, 2007 | 08:47 PM
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Very slight side to side movement should be ok, as long as there is no oil leak in that area.
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Old Nov 4, 2007 | 09:47 PM
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Eager to hear more about Opti removal since I'm about to do the same.
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Old Nov 4, 2007 | 11:40 PM
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I have a 96 with about 100,000 for the trouble to replace it I bought a Dynaspark, three years ago.
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Old Nov 5, 2007 | 04:38 AM
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Default 96 opti spark

Thanks guys, really appreciate the help, I will report on the condition when I've got the tool to get it open
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Old Nov 5, 2007 | 03:04 PM
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Default Tiny Torx bit screwdrivers

I just did the optispark on my '96 and I bought the small torx bit screw drivers from Sears. The drivers I got have green handles. They have them from E4 thru E9 so I bought one of each. I think I got them all for under $20 with tax.

Larry
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Old Nov 5, 2007 | 03:17 PM
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When I replaced mine I went to Car Quest and went through the $4.99 bargin bin to get my E4 and up torx.
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Old Nov 5, 2007 | 08:12 PM
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Just replaced my opti with the MSD unit. The original with 28K on it looked like crud inside, the rotor thing was green with corrosion and the harness looked worse.

Seems like the MSD 83811, made it run alot better. It's a well made unit. I did not expect to find the opti so crudded up with what I consider low miles. Left me stuck on the side of the road Several people stopped to help push me:o and asked if it were new

Needless to say, being broken down with a really nice looking car that won't run is hell
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