bls72bmw

Pulled an OptiSpark that was giving misfires (I think) at high RapM and WOT.
I'd like to put on an MSD cap and rotor ($220) instead of a full new Opti ($720 MSD)

​​​​​​This is my first optispark car. Would appreciate input from the team.
(I have another thread here on the entire process but I would like this to just address the OptiSpark condition. It looks like it needs a refresh to me)
the reviews on complete OptiSpark replacements are all over the board. Lost of bad reviews on all the units. PETRIS is out of stock for a 1994 Model.


Corrosion on leading edge of arm.

Corrosion on contacts

Is this eye bad? It appears OK to me.

dizwiz24

Take it further apart and look at the condition of the optical sensor

you prob need new seals from that photo

You can freshen up the contacts including the arm. Make sure theres still material left after freshening it up.

what you talk about is an eye is not an eye (from the photo on your initial post) , it is a bolt head.

id use an ohm meter and probe each cap terminals from end to end

WhiteC1

I agree with diz, you need to finish disassembling the Opti. In my opinion, a new cap and rotor may well solve your misfiring. The corrosion on the cap and rotor are severe, and could easily prevent the car from running well at higher speeds and loads. I’m curious how much rust and corrosion are under the cover behind the rotor. The reason the corrosion is so bad is mostly because the 94 Opti is not vented. You can modify your base to add the vent port, and buy a vented cap. I strongly suggest you do this. The vent hose assemblies with the check valve and orifice are available. Let us know what you find inside the Opti.

John

Whaleman

Do a search here or on the net on how to clean the optical sensor. Dan edit: The cap and rotor do need replacement.

bls72bmw

Can I take out this sensor to reuse.
​​​​​​I'm guessing the rest is toast



also. Once the screws are out do you just pull up on the sensor? It seems stuck

WhiteC1

The rust on all of the internal (steel) components is typical of a high mileage, unvented Opti. The Mitsubishi optical sensor should be cleaned and kept (they are no longer available). Realistically, you could clean and rebuild this unit, install a new cap and rotor, add venting, and reinstall it. You might actually be better off doing this, rather than rolling the dice an an aftermarket unit. That’s just my opinion, and I’m no expert…

John

Whaleman

It is not toast. The only question is how smooth the bearing feels. Dan edit: I had my original rebuilt by the optidoc back 4 years ago. I really don't know if the bearing can be cleaned and greased.

bls72bmw

It seems like it IS rolling the dice with any new unit, regarless of maker.
When I spin the central bearing (which is attached to a small plate that also spins) it makes a bit of a grinding sound but spins like it needs some grease but does not bind.

Whaleman

Anybody replace the bearing in their opti? - CorvetteForum - Chevrolet Corvette Forum Discussion