Hello,

My optispark went out 2 years ago due to the waterpump leaking on it. I replaced the waterpump and the optispark. Due to my inexperience I reused my old hose clamps and had a small leak from one of those that leaked onto my new optispark.

I did E-bay the optispark so it was about $150 dollars. Should I do the same? Some companies are saying that they are 'redesigned' and better then the OEM one. Any truth to that? Should I get one at the dealership? Napa?

I live up in Canada. Just looking for an ok quality optispark that will not break the bank.

Thanks,

Mark

 

If you were to post this on the LT1 Based Engine Tech forum, the responses would almost unanimously be that you should use ONLY the GM (Delphi) replacement. The only alternative would be the MSD, but that does not seem to offer any real advantages over the Delphi part, and it costs a lot more. Most people who have tried other name brands, parts store brands or ebay "new and improved" brands have been very disappointed.

The usual recommended source for the Delphi replacement is "thepartsladi" on ebay.

Whichever brand you choose, before installing it open the case and put some high strength Loc-tite on the rotor screws. There are likely to fall out if you don't.

 

My vote would go to the MSD one.On my 94,the o.e didn,t have the vent,& my 1st opti also went when the water pump leaked antifreeze.This happened to the 1st owner but was covered under warranty.

 

Its very easy to add a "vent" to the stock unvented Opti.

 

Is that removing the timing chain cover and putting on one from a 95+?

I'm also quite worried about price..

If I did convert to a vented, what would I need and what is the 'best for the buck' vented opti?

Thanks!

 

You can just buy the MSD 93-94 Opti, and it is vented. Or you can buy a Delphi 93-94 Opti, and add a vent. There is a link in some of the threads to an article from a Corvette magazine that has a "how to". Try a "search".

To put a true vented Opti on a 93-94 you need the Opti, a new electrcial short harness, a vacuum harness, a new timing cover, a new cam sprocket and a new camshaft and longer dowel pin (assuming you are not running an aftermarket cam).

Vented or unvented, you want a genuine Delphi part.