ok this one is a tuffy so ima need some help. i got a 94 caprice lt1 that doesnt want to run, i narrowed it down to a sensor that was inside the optispark, i beleive it is the optical sensor, i was wondering if they sell this sensor alone or do i need to buy the whole opti? and if i do where is the cheapest place to get it, i def. dont want to pay 500 bucks at my dealership for the opti. also is there any aftermarket replacment for it yet? what do you think is my best route to go? thanks

 

You should try a "search".... this is probably the most frequently discussed topic on the board.

You need a full, genuine GM replacement OptiSpark distributor. You can't just replace the optical sensor module. You could buy just the back 1/2 of the Opti rebuilt from a "chain" type auto parts store, but if the back 1/2 is shot, you would be wise to replace the entire unit and save another tear-down in the near future.

I don't know if the Caprice LT1 unit is "vented" or "non-vented". If its like the F-Body unit, it is non-vented and costs more than the vented unit. I think the current price on the vented unit from Jason Cromer is under $240 (used to be under $200 ). The non-vented is closer to $300. For deep disounts off list on genuine GM parts, do a search for the contact numbers for Jason Cromer or Dal Slabaugh.

There is an aftermarket billet OptiSpark replacement called the DynaSpark, for about $600. Again, do a search for the source. And if the optical section of your Opti was still healthy, there is an add-on module called the "LTCC" that allows you to use the optical siganl to drive 8 LS1 coils in direct fire mode. $400 for the add-on box, and another $200-250 for the coils and wires.

 

Advance Auto sells the mitsubishi thingy you are taking about. It is 60 bucks. I have bought one and you can take it off your core opti if you get a replacement. Be careful though, pull it straight up when removing and make sure the pins are super straight when intalling the new one. The pins bend easy.

Jeff D.

 

The early unvented opti it's usually the bearing that goes bad[non obtainable]
The sensor in the early I have pulled on it hard and it seems like it's soldered together to the mounting plate..

 

Good update on the Mitsubishi optical module. I did not know anyone sold that as a seperate item.

But I would also be concerned about exactly the things Mtrhds94Z mentioned. When the Opti in my 94 died at about 50K miles, I opened it up, and the problem was the optical sensor. It had been "blinded" by rust buildup from the cheap carbon steel bearing retainer plate. And the bearing was VERY hard to turn, indicating that had succumbed to the rust particles as well. And, also correct is the difference in construction of the slotted wheel on the "unvented" Optis. The disc is tack welded to the rotating hub behind it, and it can only be removed by drilling out the weld. Then you would have the issue of trying to get a new wheel exactly where the old one was located, and figuring out how to fix it to the hub. The "vented" units are different, and have a screw that holds the disc on the hub.

I would strongly recommend that if you are going to tear the Opti down to the point of replacing any one component, whether it be the cap, rotor, optical sensor, whatever, just get a COMPLETE, GENUINE GM OpriSpark unit and be done with it. And, before you install it, take the cover off and make sure the rotor is properly tightened down, because I have seen and heard of brand new units losing the rotor because it wasn't attached securely.

 

i checked there site and couldnt find it, can you send me a link ro something or what you searched to find it?? thanks!

 

I would strongly advise you to consider Injuneer's advice. If there are many miles on the opti, you won't get a very good value by replacing piece parts.

A new unvented opti can be had for ~$300 from Jason or Dal. Not sure if the Caprice was vented or unvented in 1994. The vented one is cheaper, but you have to spend more money to swap out numerous things to convert, if you are unvented now.

Dal Slabaugh: 877-448-5451
email: lockitup@bright.net
VanDevere Buick/Pontiac/Olds Akron, OH

or

Jason Cromer: 877-726-8295 or 850-243-8826 (direct parts dept ph #)
email: gmparts@samtaylor.com
Sam Taylor Buick/Cadillac Ft. Walton Beach, FL

 

its actualy a 94 caprice police engine inside a jaguar, so it is unvented. what other parts would i need to convert it into vented? also, the reason why i beleive the sensor went out is because the inside of the opti was TOTALY corroded, it was actualy falling apart. if i converted to the vented system do you think it would solve the problem?? thanks

 

Unless you are planning on a cam swap, IMO it is not worth it to swap to the vented.

http://para.noid.org/~muttvette/opti.html


The non venteds can last quite a while and they can also be "home vented". There are some artilcles on the 'net for doing that.

 

I went to an Advance Auto store and asked them if they had it. We found it on the computer and he ordered it for me. I don't have the part number.

Jeff D.