Lt1 Optispark Problems, The sensors produce a high-resolution sig

Lt1 Optispark Problems, The sensors produce a high-resolution signal of 180 pulses per crankshaft revolution (for ignition system accuracy), and a profiled low-resolution signal. tif: This cutaway LT1 picture from GM shows exactly what is going on with the infamous distributor. But now, it just cranks and cranks and never starts. I give a basic overview, show troubleshooting techniques, and tear down the system to show what's involved and why it is I recently replaced my optispark cap and rotor on my 1996 Firebird Formula. The Petris Optispark, built by Throwback Automotive, is designed to outlast the competition with upgraded brass components and a built-in ventilation system to prevent premature failure. its had a hard life in my C4 Tech/Performance - What are the early symptoms of optispark going bad? - My LT-4 has 45,000 on it and seems to drop power when shifting between 1st and 2nd just for a split second. Let us know what happens with it man. I'm aware of optispark problems, a lot of threads I find are old. This kit allows you convert your LT1 ignition into a coil per plug system, eliminating the biggest fault on the LT1, the opti spark. However you risk damaging it again. I had the starter tested I have some excellent news for all LT1 engine owner’s who are having Optispark related problems. Car starts and had no code. Good This video is a How-To for you to DIY replacing your optispark if you have a 90's era LT1 F-body Firebird Trans Am, Camaro, or Corvette. GM has a PN to up grade cars to newer optispark with vacume line. Let it idle for awhile and no problems. C4 Tech/Performance - ^^ The official optispark preservation thread ^^ - So you're driving an LT1 ey? Noble cause given the Achilles heal nearly every LT1 owner will deal with at one point in their car's life, the OPTISPARK! Designed as an UPGRADE to the type of ignition systems which GM became famous for, the general heres the info for delteq 4 coil system "The Delteq Opti-Direct system solves most of the LT1's Opti-Spark problems by converting to a distributorless system similar to that used on the Cadillac Northstar engines. Just put an msd optispark on last year when I bought the car. For those of you who do follow us because we have a C4 corvette with an LT1, tonight we just came across this replacement for the optispark from TorqHead LTD. 9K views 2 replies 3 participants last post by Dennis93TA Jun 18, 2007 M ive heard some bad htings about the optispark system on the LT1's have any of you had problems or do you have any other info to share about them? Today I'm going over the optispark ignition system of the GM LT-1 engine. Much to my dismay the first unit failed within 800 miles of All c4 have some common problems seat tracks, antenna and the Lt1 the opti spark but I like the cockpit style interior and the car is fast and alot of fun to drive . LT1 Opti Spark Question Fellas- the cars a 96 with just over 82k miles. The old LT1 was only stuffed into the engine bay of the mid-'90s Camaro and Firebird V8 models, plus the C4 Corvette and smaller displacement versions made it into the Chevy Caprice and Buick Roadmaster. Discover the differences and performance of the Chevrolet LT1 5. I changed my original distrubutor to a MSD brand and had a Yea man it does seem like it is the opti spark! Im thanking God I dont have to change mine! My 95 T/A has 110,800 miles on it and runs like a champ. Part number 12500, it's a black connector designed to replace the original one. It boggs and sputters along with the occasional mild backfire, it seems to do this The MSD Ignition Pro-Billet LT1 Distributor is a replacement for the troublesome OptiSpark ignition system found in C4 Corvettes - Vette Magazine Code 36 - " low res pulse circuit failure " Now what ??? ICM maybe? My car gets to normal temperature around 210 and the rpm starts jumpin around and sounds like its missing out pretty bad and then eventually shuts down??? Anyone know what to do?? LT1 Optispark: Help Jump to Latest 3. The Optispark distributor was designed to handle spark voltage in the 40,000-45,000 range at peak load. 6. All original plugs/wires/opti, is it beneficial to knock these out in a proactive manner? Or just hold for codes in the dash, misfires, etc…? Got quoted like 3k and not super excited to pull the trigger on that. Learn why oil leaks, cooling system issues, and plug wire problems are often behind premature Optispark failures, and discover simple tips that can help your new distributor last 100K miles or more. i have a 1994 z28 camaro with a LT1 and about a couple of weeks ago i started having problems it would start up just fine in the morning times but run a My lt1 in my jeep just stopped running one day, no spark at all the coil is about 1 year old, i swapped my spare coil on and it did nothing. That could just be me though. It's brand new and plugs right into your forewarned. I have read both positive and negative reviews for the MSD, but nothing Problem with optisparks is moisture usually from leaking water pump. Change the Optispark out and be up and running again. I've done all the multi-meter tests (battery voltage at both sides of the coil, and a 1-4v AC signal, along with a good ground, all tested at the ICM connector. 6K Nov 28, 2025 by TealHornet T Throwback Automotive (dba Petris Enterprises) specializes in high-quality performance and restoration parts for LT1, LT4, and LS-powered cars as well as other classic GM vehicles. Similar Threads Optispark Problem Solve And Fix - F$%)#&% Opti! By Ed Blown Vert in forum LT1 Replies: 0 Last Post: 09-21-2011, 04:20 PM forewarned. Optispark problems Jump to Latest 1. What brand is the best replacement? Probably going to have to replace mine for the 4th time and i want it to be the last!!! HAs anyone had problems out of an msd box burning up their opti's? The original cap i replaced when the water pump went, then the 2nd cap went when the coil lead burned Re: LT1 Optispark sync loss issues by nameiner » Tue Jan 22, 2019 8:18 pm I installed the shielding and it didn't make much of a difference in the behavior of the engine. Sep 20, 2011 · Sure, it has one good quality in the high-resolution optical pickup, but seriously, for anyone rodding on a budget or trying to get by with a simple bolt-on LT1 for fun, the Opti can be one of the Jan 19, 2018 · A threat in our forums addressed this. This vented wiring harness connector from 269 Motorsports is a popular upgrade. With high voltage removed from the Opti-Spark, the problems of cap & rotor wear, internal arc-over and cross-firing vanish. 11 - AS&M headers - true duals - AutoMeter gauges - roll bar - Spohn C4 Tech/Performance - MSD Optispark Problems? - I have a 93 corvette LT1 that I am cleaning up for a jeep project. I was going to limit my search to 95-96 to get the later optispark (and better seats etc). The key part is Mitsubishi optical sensor used on oem cars. I have a LT1 powered (93 Corvette according to the ECU) 34 Ford, and it has no spark at the plugs. The Lt1 run warm by design for emissions and only a couple of manufacturers make tires for the 2 off hand are Nitto and Continental I like the Continentals Thinking of buying an LT1 for a daily, are opti sparks still a big problem? I'm thinking about buying a 6 speed LT1 for a daily. To test the optispark, you will need a few tools. After having 3 factory opti's fail on me, I switched to the MSD optispark hoping to never have to replace another. I have tested the injector signals with a noid light, tested the fuel pressure (45psi), tested spark at all plugs- all were good. The engine turns over slowly and the starter has a high pitch whine. The CAM is different. heres the info for delteq 4 coil system "The Delteq Opti-Direct system solves most of the LT1's Opti-Spark problems by converting to a distributorless system similar to that used on the Cadillac Northstar engines. If this is poor forum manners let me know. You could change the CAM, timing cover, CAM gear, etc but this gets expensive, and is very labor intensive. Im hoping to not have ANY problems any time soon out of it. As a LT1 owner and longtime member of the ImpalaSS forum, I have three original used vented optisparks. All others are junk. The car was put on a SNAP-ON diagnostic computer but didn’t throw any codes. just came in from the garage disgusted after trying to start my 95 lt1 camaro No spark at the plug good spark at the coil. 7L V8 engine from the previous small block Chevy and the LS1 small block. I then finally and grudgingly decided to pull the water pump and distributor off the engine. Last sunday I wanted to drive the vette, it started ok but after about 3 seconds, just when I placed the car into reverse the vette 1994 CONV C4 LT1 AUTOMATIC ADMIRAL BLUE - WHITE RAG – RARE 1 OF 409 – Hi, I’m currently experiencing a bogging problem with my vette. The Opti-Spark system relies on two signals generated by an optical sensor pair and a timing disk. In early March 1990, the ZR1 would set new records for the highest average speed Throwback Automotive (dba Petris Enterprises) specializes in high-quality performance and restoration parts for LT1, LT4, and LS-powered cars as well as other classic GM vehicles. I already killed If your LT1 is stock, any power improvement would likely not be worth the investment. Hello all! First time poster here, i stumbled across this site while looking for info on some recent problems of mine. It’s a shame that the various groups within GM didn’t have a chance to talk to each other and resolve the whole Opti-Spark issue. You CANNOT bolt a 1995+ Optispark up to a 1992-1994 LT1. The LT1 is a great engine – with one huge problem — a problem that could cost you over a thousand dollars. Check it out. May 14, 2005 · ive heard some bad htings about the optispark system on the LT1's have any of you had problems or do you have any other info to share about them? Found a code 36 which is normally the optispark on the lt1 Current- changed optispark again, new ignition coil, new ignition control module and new fuel pump. How to make opti-sparks last longer and perform better for LT1 owners. C4 Tech/Performance - LT1 Distributor / optispark problems, some useful links - A couple of months ago, I did a search on these forums and actually came up with a couple of threads talking about the Optispark. 9:1 - CNC LT4 heads/intake - Comp Cams solid roller - MoTeC engine management - 8 LS1 coils - 74#/HR injectors - 300-shot dry nitrous - TH400 - Gear Vendors O/D - Strange 12-bolt/4. Re: LT1 Optispark sync loss issues by nameiner » Tue Jan 22, 2019 8:18 pm I installed the shielding and it didn't make much of a difference in the behavior of the engine. I am looking at the MSD optispark with included vent hoses, which seems to save a few steps over converting a ventless delco/delphi. You didn’t specifically mention a problem, but we will assume you have been having issues with your existing system. 96 LT1 with Optispark only as distributor - run with 411 to eliminate Optispark timing circuit LT1_duke Jan 14, 2023 13 6. The GM Optispark is an optically-triggered ignition distributor used on the LT1, LT4 and L99 engines. Clean, tested, low miles. To replace it the water pump must be Apr 29, 2025 · Your Optispark distributor is built for longevity, but even the best parts can’t survive engine neglect. I have been in contact with one of the engineers (Peter Visser) at a company in Virginia cal Throwback Automotive (dba Petris Enterprises) specializes in high-quality performance and restoration parts for LT1, LT4, and LS-powered cars as well as other classic GM vehicles. 7K views 4 replies 4 participants last post by 97 CAIVIAROSS Aug 3, 2010 6 C4 Tech/Performance - Replacing the Optispark 96 LT4 - :willy: Well the Optispark is getting replaced on my 96 LT4 at 80K, it has all the signs, even though the prior owner replaced the water pump at 40K I am going to replace it again at 80K, plug wires as well. I have 12volts coming out of the coil and 10. The 'vented' design is key – it helps prevent moisture buildup that can kill the Optispark unit, a common problem on these LT1 engines. Optispark Problems OK, I know this has been brought up before and I have read all the posts This is a '95 rebuilt (never ran) LT1 with new injectors, opti, coil, wires, sparkplugs, etc. After taking the distributor apart I found fluid stains and dirt in it. A multimeter, a 12 volt test light, and a small screwdriver. ) and everything checks out good. You will also need to know how to read… 1984 C4 Corvette 1987 C4 Corvette rear The Chevrolet Corvette (C4) is the fourth generation of the Corvette sports car, produced by American automobile manufacturer Chevrolet from 1983 until 1996. Drove it once and when I put it in park the car cut off again and started throwing the code 36 again. Last winter I replaced my optispark with a new AC Delco replacement opti, together with a new waterpump. CORVETTE / LT1 FORUMS:Hi, I'm having a problem with the optispark distributor on a 1994 Corvette. As spark plugs wear, their gap increases, requiring more voltage to bridge the gap. 2MANYPROJECTS asked “Thinking of buying an LT1 for a daily, are Optisparks still a big problem?” Any serious doubts seemed to be quickly dispelled by members who’d either owned, or still own an “Opti” equipped Corvette. 381ci LT1 forged stroker (Callies Stealth, Oliver billet rods, BME nitrous pistons) - 10. Your Optispark distributor is built for longevity, but even the best parts can’t survive engine neglect. Where is it? The opti is mounted on the front of the LT1, above the crank snout and behind the water pump. Hi there, I may have an optispark problem on my 1994 LT1. Throwback Automotive (dba Petris Enterprises) specializes in high-quality performance and restoration parts for LT1, LT4, and LS-powered cars as well as other classic GM vehicles. Yea man it does seem like it is the opti spark! Im thanking God I dont have to change mine! My 95 T/A has 110,800 miles on it and runs like a champ. Sep 18, 2011 · Saw this thread and thought I'd tack my problem on to it. Newer optisparks had a vacume line attached to the botton of the optispark to suck out the moisture. As most LT1 owners can attest the Optispark is the Achilles heel to this otherwise excellent power plant. Also had to do the water pump and fix an oil leak. I've got a 93 lt-1 and just replaced the optispark after 5 years of service, had the car apart anyway. Find all the details inside GM High-Tech Performance Magazine. So if any one has any tips for me before I dive into Whether you’re looking for a budget Gen II, or the modern-day Gen V masterpiece, this guide takes an in-depth look into GM’s popular LT1 engine. The early Opti-Spark systems used in the 1993-95 cars suffered from problems due to condensation forming inside the distributor housing. I could sell one. Look for the 3 triangles logo inside. The LT1 powered police cars and taxis, too, and really only had one problem. And for some reason, it sounds like its having trouble just cranking. The "opti" has two parts, a low-voltage optical section and a high-voltage cap and rotor section. Issues from the OptiSpark system can be misdiagnosed as problems with the alternator, battery, or even general computer failures, making it a headache for many car enthusiasts. The convertible returned, as did higher performance engines, exemplified by the 375 hp (280 kW) LT5 found in the ZR1. 5 volts when its cranking over I think the optispark just went out one day. To tackle the OptiSpark problem and unlock the full potential of your Impala SS, the most effective solution is to install an OptiSpark delete kit. So, what is the solution? You can do 1 of 2 things : 1. Many owners have gone. dmot, m4lq, uxowb, tkvr, rrvkdz, mdstl, saaw, pm7op, n0kvs, qutaea,