I just finished installing the MSD opti, and the car runs beautifully. I left the adjustment screw where it was from the factory, and at first idel thought I was going to have to adjust it, as the car died as soon as I put it into Reverse. Waited about an hour though and it started right up, and was able to go into any gear with no problem. My question though, is if I do need to adjust it at any point after furthur driving, how has anyone reached it. I tried a long handle screw driver, but the angle is off. A universal joint socket was next, but one of the water pump bolts is in the way. Anyone have any ideas or experiences, please share.

 

Use a 3/8" ratchet with an extension. I have a U-joint that helps a lot too. I can't remember the size, but it might be 1/2" socket.

 

I tried a very long standard screw driver also but could only get it to turn slightly and then started to strip the screw. I figure the best way is a 1/4 inch with extension and a swivel joint. I figure if i can almost do it with a screw driver this should work easily. The things almost a foot down there!

 

Once you get the thing running right let us know how the msd opti performs. im thinking about getting one but want to know if it's worth it.

 

And this was able to get around the front water pump bolt? Not the large ones that bolt the pump to the block, the ones that hold the housing cover on. I tried exactly what you described and couldn't get the socket over the screw. I wish they had put it on the driver's side, I've got plenty of access there.

 

I was able to do it just fine. I agree with you about the driver's side, but maybe they were worried about hitting the coil and frying it, I dunno. If you have to, take the WP off and adjust it to the stock setting, 2 turns out IIRC. That way you know if it's that or not. Really, that screw is NOT intended to advance or retard spark plug timing, but instead it's used to correct the timing if you advanced or retarded the cam using an aftermarket timing set like the Cloyes. Any ignition timing adjustments should only be made through tuning the pcm.

Check again to make sure all the plug wires are in the right place.