I noticed upon removing my water pump that one of the bolts holding my optispark down had worked itself loose (i originally didn't replace my optispark, i had someone else do it). This of course was pretty alarming, so i proceeded to remove the optispark. Once the opti was removed I noticed that one of the rings on the shaft from the optispark going into the cam was completely shattered. I'm guessing that the two rings on the shaft of the optispark going into the cam are to balance the opti with the rest of the motor, correct? I've had some terrible misfire problems over the past few weeks and if this is the problem then i'll be quite relieved....

anyone else think that this could be my problem? (shattered ring around the opti shaft going into the cam)

 

The rings may provide some stability, but I doubt if that is your problem. Most people find those rings deteriorated or gone.

 

well, doesn't change the fact that the thing was loose and i could literally rattle it with my fingers.... im sure SOMETHING is damaged in there ( i have a SLP loudmouth exhaust, rattles the whole car ... that might have had something to do with it ) ....

also, i tested fuel pressure and its at 40psi at idle ... i dont think fuel is really my problem