My Opti went out today. I changed it when I replaced the motor ( 10k miles ago ). What other options are available for the LT-1? I did a search and found a few. MSDs distributor looks identical to GM's opti but does it work better? Delteq has a replacement correct? What is the best set-up for a street/strip car?
Thanks,
Matt

 

Delteq isn't really a "replacement" yet, it still uses the optics of the opti so if that were to go out you would need to replace the opti for your delteq to work. The MSD opti is just supposed to hold up to more current better.

 

So there is no replacement? Someone told me that coil packs are available for the LT-1 like the LS-1 has. It this true? What other avenues can I take other than an Opti?

 

The delteq uses coil packs but it still uses the opti.

 

There have been extensive threads on the Advanced Tech board dealing with alternatives to the Opti.

http://web.camaross.com/forums/showt...threadid=23617

http://web.camaross.com/forums/showthread.php?t=25146

 

So the Delteq system is an optispark with coil packs? I do not think I want an extra component that could also fail. I guess I'll get a MSD ignition instead of the GM product. Does that sealer that is suppost to keep moisture out work? I seen it for 27.00 on another site.

 

The MSD part is simply a supposedly upgraded cap and rotor. That is only 1/2 of the Otpi, and generally, its not a good idea to replace only 1/2. The rear section, incorporating the bearing and the optical sensor can fail as well.

Virtually every solution uses some part of the Opti. Most of the solutions move the high voltage function out of the Opti, and that seems to make the Opti MUCH more reliable. I've been running that way for 4 years with no problems. A buddy of mine made 1,125HP in a 383/Vortch LT1 using that approach, and it was reliable for 5 years.

The options are:

-Dynaspark: a billet case Opti, with supposedly upgraded components.

-Bailey LTCC: uses the Opti sensor to feed a black box, which allows the stock PCM to drive 8 LS1 coils.

-Delteq: uses the Opti sensor to feed a black box, which allows the stock PCM to drive a Northstar ignition module and 4-coil "waste spark" setup.

-Add a "normal" distributor at the rear of the engine, run a long wire from the stock coil to the distributor. In effect, using only the Opti sensor.

-Aftermarket ECU's will accept the Opti optical sensor signal. I run a MoTeC M48Pro with IEX 8-channel ignition driver, and 8 LS1-style coils.

Those solutions will run you anywhere from $500 - $3,500.