Coil Upgrade

[andrewc4]

It looks like I'm running an original coil with MSD 8.5 wires. Have no idea how old the plugs are, (of course the car was bought recently). The wires look fairly new based upon how dirty they are.

I'm going to change the plugs because I don't want them 'welding' to the head, although there is a possibility they're as new as the wires. Any recommendations for replacements?

The coil on the other may be original, haven't looked for markings yet. Will I get much/any of a performance improvement replacing the coil with a brand new MSD coil?

 

[vetteboy86]

As far as performance it certainly cannot hurt. It is always good practice to stay up on a your tune up schedule. I do a tune up everyother year regardless of miles. Most will say the stock is fine, but I like to add some personality to my car, so I have an Accel coil on my car, and accell wires. I also am running AC Delco rapid fire plugs. Not sure what is best in your LT1, but some have suggested running cut back plugs.

Good luck,
Craig

 

[Lninety8]

Not sure on the LT1's, but on my L-98 I installed a Hypertech Super Coil. They respond a little better with a wider gap plug than stock. On the L-98's you can gap 'em to .045 and as stated by VetteBoy, cut-back the plugs. Combined might be good for a couple extra ponies. But alone don't expect any gains except from the tune itself.

Good Luck!

 

[WhalePirot]

An old ignition guy (Orange County Speed) told me that the plugs will only use the power needed to spark. Extra is a waste. The HEI gives plenty, with a stock coil unless you get into boost of some sort, or revs over 7k.

BTW, OCS does primarily ignition systems, for all sorts of rods.

Individuality, is another matter.

 

[c4cruiser]

The LT1 coil puts out more than enough spark for a stock motor even with simple bolt-ons like headers, exhaust, air intake and such. If you are going to heavily mod the motor (increased displacement, heads, cam, etc) then you may have to get a hotter coil.

I used NGK Ti55 Iridiums in my 92 as they were recommended by many other members here and on the CF. I also installed some MSD 8.5 Super Conductor wires. Plug changes aren't that easy so take your time. Remove the rear portions of the wheel wells to get a better shot at the plugs.

Plug #6 and 8 are going to be a PITA but doable. Make sure the engine is cold when you pull the old plugs so you don't risk stripping the threads in the aluminum heads. Use some anti-sieze compound on the new plug threads and tighten to around 11-13 ft-bls.

 

[Edmond]

An old ignition guy (Orange County Speed) told me that the plugs will only use the power needed to spark. Extra is a waste. The HEI gives plenty, with a stock coil unless you get into boost of some sort, or revs over 7k.

That's the same thing that I was told. I don't think you'll be going over 7K.