So my search for the third gen I've been longing has been giving up.

My new search for an LT1 Camaro has begun. My question is what is the whole deal with the opti-spark?

When ever I mention the thought of buying an LT1 to someone the first thing out of their mouth is complaining about the opti-spark?

Can someone please just inform me on what exactly this is? What is wrong with it? Can it be fixed? How much is it to fix? etc... just a general backround on it.

I have to apoligize cause I know this is probably a pretty dumb question to most of you.

Thanks in advance.

,Nick

 

The optispark is the distributor. It wears out just like any other. No big deal, except that is a little hard to get to because it is mounted on the front of the engine behind the water pump. Don't let that stop you from looking at LT1s. Pay no attention to the whiners.

 

In addition to it being a distributor it also has a built-in optical sensor that gives the PCM two signals to fire the injectors and for ignition control.
One advice is to look for 95+ models that had the vented opti. This is supposedly more durable, widely available and much cheaper than the non-vented version.

 

Opti-sparks are the shizzle.

 

pretty sure I understand now.

I'll be sure to look for a 95+ if its going to save me headaches and cash.

If anyone has anymore input, I'd like to see it.

Thanks again.

,Nick