I have a 1994 LT1 with the non vented opti spark, and I was wondering what my options were for a more durable distributor. The only option I know of is to get a later model opti, timing cover, and cam (I plan to throw a new cam in, so no big deal there)

Thanks-

Eric

 

You have a few options. Here is how I would rank them, with #1 being the best.

7. Get a used 95-97 opti.
6. Get a new regular 95-97 vented opti.
5. New MSD opti or MSD cap and rotor on 95-97 opti.
4. LTCC coil pack conversion. Still used the optispark sensor but takes the high spark out.
3. New Dynapark opti.
2. LSx pcm and coil pack conversion.
1. Aftermarket computer with Jesel belt driven distributor or regular sbc distributor(can be very expensive)

Most people go with the MSD because its not much more than a replacement opti I think. Most haven't had problems with them and its better than a stock replacement.

I personally on planning on going with the dynaspark. Its the best optispark made but its also the most expensive opti, $600. Pretty much bullet-proof opti and it has less parts and is less complex than the coil pack conversions. In my opinion, better than the LTCC because that doesn't completely eliminate the opti like the LSx or aftermarket computer setups do.

 

Hers the best opti soloution on the market thus far....say bye to it!
http://www.eficonnection.com/24x/default.htm

 

I'm correct in my thinking that a 95-97 opti requires 95-97 timing cover and camshaft too right? anything else it would require?

 

also, is there any way to bench test an opti?

 

Amyone?

 

Can't speak on the bench testing stuff, but I've read more opti threads than I'd care to brag about right now as i'm in the boat to replace mine right now. It seems that MSD had problems with thier unit up until 2006 with the redesign, from that point on, you're hard pressed to find bad information. Right now I'm leaning towards a dynaspark unit, but many will say go with ACDelco or Delphi, just for the sheer fact people do have with very expensive MSDs and such, that a factory part that costs almost half as much can be replaced twice in comparison to one MSD, plus the orignal on the motor most likely lasted upwards of 75k - 150k, without one issue when GM recommends replacement every 60k, so you figure they did something right with their parts. In the end you will have the very difficult decision on which way to spend you're money, but the best for the buck if you want low cost with high functionality is a factory ACDelco/Delphi unit with a ~$150 MSD cap and rotor, as it converts it to be vented like the 95+ units, to keep moisture out and other gases that are created during combustion. Also, any unit you get you should LocTite the rotor screws as many people have complained about them backing out and falling apart while using them.

 

I ended up getting a late model opti setup from the JY, I'm going to replace that actual opti still, but that won't happen until I'm done renovating my house... and building a 2.5 car workshop.