Anyone know how to bench test an Opti?
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 389
Likes: 0
From: Micco FL
Anyone know how to bench test an Opti?
Getting ready to replace the Opti in my 92 LT1 with one someone gave me that I modified to be vented. Before I go through all the trouble is there a way to bench test the Opti prior to replacement?
Safety Car
Joined: Feb 1999
Posts: 3,504
Likes: 4
From: Mexico Beach FL
Re: Anyone know how to bench test an Opti? (PTz-92-LT1)
I did this once for the low-voltage section.
You can apply the regulated +5 volts to the Opti-Spark from a well regulated power supply. Then, by hand turning the Opti-Spark shaft, you can view the low-resolution and high-resolution signals with an oscilloscope or voltmeter to see if they exist.
Or, just plug in the Opti-Spark with the ignition coil and injectors disconnected and turn the shaft while monitoring the low and high res signals with an oscilloscope, meter, on scan-tool.
I never did a bench check on the high-voltage section -- didn't want to hold it while 30KV was bouncing around.
Tom Piper
You can apply the regulated +5 volts to the Opti-Spark from a well regulated power supply. Then, by hand turning the Opti-Spark shaft, you can view the low-resolution and high-resolution signals with an oscilloscope or voltmeter to see if they exist.
Or, just plug in the Opti-Spark with the ignition coil and injectors disconnected and turn the shaft while monitoring the low and high res signals with an oscilloscope, meter, on scan-tool.
I never did a bench check on the high-voltage section -- didn't want to hold it while 30KV was bouncing around.
Tom Piper
Safety Car
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 3,842
Likes: 230
From: SANTA CRUZ CA
Re: Anyone know how to bench test an Opti? (PTz-92-LT1)
This response is just to provide you with something to think about. The diagnostic test on an opti is quite complicated and requires know-how and instruments. Assuming you have the experience and tools, even if the opti checks OK, you are working with a used part that has suspect longevity. This component is so critical to the operation of your vette that I would recommend buying a new opti from {Non-supporting vendor} (Jeff Kopp $265), or Dyno Tech (a participating sponsor - left column @$500), with warranty provisions. There is just too much labor involved replacing an opti to rely on a used part. Good luck with the install.....
