So replacing the Optispark with something that will stay reliable is the goal. Here are the 4 options I've come up with: I really want to do the Megasquirt and believe the Megasquirt is the best option, but worry about the programming. There are many other benefits to the Megasquirt too, like data logging etc. I've read a great deal, and this isn't a small project. My worry here would be having trouble and not getting the car ready in time for spring not to mention never being happy with the tune and always fiddling with it. This isn't just an ignition change but a complete change to the car's computer, that means wiring changes, etc. I'm sure I can figure it out, I just worry if I can do it quickly enough and will be happy with the final product. If you have any other ideas, or have tried any of the above combinations I'd love to here about them in the comments below. Likewise if you know about a shop in the Toronto area that knows Megasquirt well, let me know. Update: Two other options have been discovered: 1) LTCC, similar to the Delteq system except 8 LSx coils. Cost ~$650 including LSx coil packs. http://www.bailey-eng.com/LTCC.html 2) EFI Connection 24x kit with the required parts to swap out the LT1 ECM for the LS1 PCM. Kit includes cam reluctor new timing cover, crank reluctor, and requires a harness modification and new LSx computer. Cost for the "kit" is $525 and requires a harness ($650 or DIY $100) and LS1 PCM ($100) + LS1 coils (~$250 OEM). This sounds like a happy medium between Megasquirt and Delteq/LTCC. Assuming I can figure out the harness. http://www.eficonnection.com/24x/ This means I have 6 options. I like the idea of the EFI Connection 24x but again worry if I will run into problems, if that is going too far…Current thinking is either the LTCC options, the Dynaspark alone or the EFI Connection…
The Woes of Optispark (updated)
The 1994 LT1 in Brutus uses a Gen 1 "unvented" Optispark, this means it has no vent holes, meaning moisture collects and that leads to Optispark failure. This is a well known problem, some cars go 200,000 miles with no issue while others a subject to replacement after replacement. I believe the issues of the engine from last week's drive are just that, Optispark issues, it matches most of the symptoms:
So I've been researching what to do about this. Buy another $300 Opti and cross my fingers, or fix the problem once and for all. I could change the Opti to a "Gen-II" which has better vent holes but that's not a small change, new timing set, new cam, timing cover etc etc. It's not a 5 second thing and no guarantee.
Posted in Parts.
– November 14, 2009
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