Optispark, do I need to fear something?

[ReggieD]

I am very sure that I read something about how the Optispark was improved in the 92 models by adding three drain holes to prevent water/antifreeze from damaging the electronics.

But today I read something that says the problem may still be there, if the Optispark housing is hot and cold water splash on the housing the effect would cause the cold water to be drawn up into the unit which may cause the problem from the past. Is this optispark a hidden problem I need to worry about or what can I do to lessen my chances to encounter this nighmare.:duh

 

[mrmarauder]

http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=33844&highlight=optispark

I usually go to the search feature on this website and type the word in. Chances are it has been discussed a bunch of times. This above link was just one of about 20 or so that have been discussed in details.

Just a suggestion. It saves you time in posting if it has already been answered. I have done this a bunch in the last month and have found just about every answer without even having to post the question.

 

[JRMaroon]

Reggie,

The opti was first used on our cars in '92 with the introduction of the LT1. What I cannot stress enough is that you DO NOT WANT TO GET IT WET. Addtitional venting to keep it dry inside was added in 95 or 96. Your car has the original design.

In case you don't know where it is located, it is on the front of the motor, under the water pump. A failure and subsequent leak in the water pump will most likely get it wet and create a failure.

Washing the motor with a hose is dangerous and should be avoided. Use great care keeping this dry when you detail the engine compartment. I usually just use a cleaner like Simple Green with damp towels and clean everything I can get my hands on.

Jeff

On a side note, I see you are in the NW Georgia area. Check out the details of our weekend cruise under the Southwest section of Regional Forums. You would have a great time!

 

[BTDOG]

Jeff, saw your sidenote. When and where is weekend cruise. New here myself.

 

[vettenick]

Reggie, Outside of moisture,the bearing that the shaft rides on gets killed from the heat.
If you want to do some cleaning in that area, put some old rags on the frame below the timing cover and spray some brake cleaner when the engine is cold. It'll disolve grease and evaporate fast. Just don't get any in your eyes from splash back.

 

[HTRK-1]

Everything above is correct. I think whats you read was about the original opti's in 92 that were all recalled do to the size of the drain hole and premature failure. GM made the hole smaller thus the unit didn't vent the moisture as well. 95/96 have better design. Hope this helps.

 

[vettenick]

There is a venting kit that Gm supplies if you want to upgrade. The only problem is that the distributor must be removed to do this. I did this when I replaced my distributor. Considering the price of the distributor $300 and up..an additional $25 total is nothing.If you want the part #, I can get it for you.

 

[ReggieD]

Seem like something that needs to be done

There is a venting kit that Gm supplies if you want to upgrade. The only problem is that the distributor must be removed to do this. I did this when I replaced my distributor. Considering the price of the distributor $300 and up..an additional $25 total is nothing.If you want the part #, I can get it for you.

vettenick

I am going to wait until the winter months before I change my water pump and distributor. My car has 100+ miles on it. I looked thru-out the forum and I found a lot of infor on this problem. It seems like you modified your own. Do this fix really work? I also saw a company that sells the distributor with the mod already done.
http://www.dynotech-eng.com/dynaspark.htm

I am a very good with my hands. Based on your knowledge of the job do you recommend me using the GM kit or should I purchase the modified unit. How long did it take you?Do this fix really work?

Are there any other GM screw ups that I need to worry about?

 

[vettenick]

I followed Chris Petris' article in Corvette Fever. I can fax you a copy of this article. If you're good enough to replace the distributor yourself, you can do this upgrade easily.
Just let me know.
The only other problem with this engine is the intake's leaking of oil in the front and the back. If you have a lot of crud behind the water pump and on the timing cover, that's due to the dirt sticking to the oil from the leak. Maybe you're lucky and the previous owner already did the repair. Give me your fax # and I'll get it to you.

 

[mrmarauder]

Reggie,
I just came across this. You might want to check it out.

http://www.corvettefever.com/howto/16758/

Good luck,

LARRY :cool