Opti spark
Race Director
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 11,268
Likes: 14
From: Honolulu, HI
Re: Opti spark (86shark)
buying checklist???
THe Optispark is the LT-1 distributor. It's about $330 from Superior Chevrolet and needs to be modified because it's a POS. It sits under the waterpump and about the balancer in front of the engine.
That's it in a nutshell
THe Optispark is the LT-1 distributor. It's about $330 from Superior Chevrolet and needs to be modified because it's a POS. It sits under the waterpump and about the balancer in front of the engine.
That's it in a nutshell
Elite Torch Red Member
Joined: Sep 1999
Posts: 57,805
Likes: 23
From: Exit 89 GSP,Lakewood,NJ The Land Of Mojo
Cental/South NJ Events Coordinator
CI 1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10-11-12 Vet
CI-II Burnout & Drag Champ
St. Jude Donor '03-'04-'05-'06-'07
Re: Opti spark (86shark)
It's not a POS, but you do have to be careful. On the early design('92-'94), you have to be careful not to get it wet, also, you can't let the car sit for any amount of time. It was explained to me in great detail, but I don't think I could accurately repeat it here, but basically the longer it sits, the more chance of an optispark failure.
These cars need to be driven often.
These cars need to be driven often.
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 2,143
Likes: 7
From: San Diego CA
Re: Opti spark (Mr Mojo)
... but basically the longer it sits, the more chance of an optispark failure.
These cars need to be driven often.
These cars need to be driven often.
If there were moisture/coolant (from a leaking pump) in the opti when it is shut down, the moisture/coolant accelerates oxidation on the hi-voltage contacts.
Even a bad opti is not a reason to reject an otherwise good car. It's a DIY replacement and the cost is as stated above. A first-timer can do it in a day (a full day).
All in all, not the best piece of engineering GM ever did.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2000
Posts: 6,374
Likes: 21
From: Traverse City MI
Re: Opti spark (86shark)
It's actually a neat little unit. The first step in eliminating the traditional distributer. It's location is what gets it in trouble. No more having to adjust the timing, much better starts, more accurate spark (within 1 degree). Makes for a much better looking enigne then the coils over each cylinder IMHO that we see in the LS series.
Drifting
Joined: Apr 2000
Posts: 1,803
Likes: 1
From: PA
Re: Opti spark (Aaron71771)
The GM Optispark has faulty sealing design. They can fail every 5 years or so unless you remove it and seal the cap and base seams with Permatex. Upgrading the unit to '95-'96 vacuum purge will make it even more reliable. This is a weekend job that MUST be tackled on every LT1 car, unless you wish to take your chances with unexpected breakdown & towing. With $20 worth of sealing and purge mods, the Optispark cars are every bit as reliable as other vehicles. A modified Optispark should last 100K miles easy.
Instructor
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 102
Likes: 0
From: Knoxville TN
Re: Opti spark (Rick93Z07)
Have you all heard of an Opti spark causing a backfire going from 1 to 2 (Auto) at WOT? My car has 117,000 miles on it. The previous owner replace it 3 years ago with a remanufactured unit. That was about 40,000 miles ago. I think I hear break up in the high RPMs. Just wondering if this is the opti spark failing and as a result loading up with fuel?! :confused: :banghead:
I will post this as a question but I saw this link and thought I would chime in. :D
I will post this as a question but I saw this link and thought I would chime in. :D
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Elite Torch Red Member
Joined: Sep 1999
Posts: 57,805
Likes: 23
From: Exit 89 GSP,Lakewood,NJ The Land Of Mojo
Cental/South NJ Events Coordinator
CI 1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10-11-12 Vet
CI-II Burnout & Drag Champ
St. Jude Donor '03-'04-'05-'06-'07
Re: Opti spark (grape8)
Grape, that spunds like an opti problem to me, or at least something in the ignition.
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 2,143
Likes: 7
From: San Diego CA
Re: Opti spark (Mr Mojo)
Grape, that spunds like an opti problem to me, or at least something in the ignition.
If it is very regular and consistent. Also it it happens more when it is hot than cold.
Sounds like the high voltage side is breaking down and sending the spark to the wrong cylinder. If you open it up, you'll probably see oxidation and carbon tracks.
Instructor
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 102
Likes: 0
From: Knoxville TN
Re: Opti spark (John Row)
Thanks John Row & Mr. MoJo!
Your answers are right in line of what myself and others have discussed. One even specifically mentioned carbon track.
Knowledge is King. That's why I asked the questions.
Thanks! :seeya
Your answers are right in line of what myself and others have discussed. One even specifically mentioned carbon track.
Knowledge is King. That's why I asked the questions.
Thanks! :seeya