First sign of the optispark going bad

[Dean Barker]

What is the very first sign of the optispark going bad? At 37,000 miles, mine runs very well, but I would like to know what the warning signs are. I would rather change mine in the garage instead out on the road. Also, can these things be cleaned up or is the best way to just get a new one? Thanks.

 

[Edmond]

Your 96' will have the later Optispark which is much better than the 92-94 units. Opti failure was usually the water pump leaking onto the distributor and it was too late by the time driveability issues were noticeable.

Are you experiencing driveability issues? Is the water pump leaking?

 

[Tuna]

What is the very first sign of the optispark going bad?

Will not start,
Backfires during start,
rough idle
stumbles when running
misses,

just to name a few.

The OptiSpark does not like to get wet. If moisture gets inside it, it causes all sorts of problems. If the moisture has not caused permanent damage yet, the OptiSpark can be 'dried' out with a heat gun (hair dryer). If that doesn't work, there are rebuild kits for them that may cure the problems.

The 'old style' OptiSpark on my 92 lasted 11+ years and required one session with a hair dryer during that time. So, they can and do last a long time. The ones on the 95/96 should do even better since they are better at keeping the moisture out.

 

[Dean Barker]

No driveability problems yet; just looking ahead. I live on a gravel road, so I drive at idle in 3rd gear for the first mile and a half to the nearest blacktop. Driving this slow when cold, it occasionally bucks, but does not do it when warm. Other wise, it runs perfectly. Thanks