How does an Optispark work?

How does an Optispark work?

In contrast, the Opti-Spark uses multiple optical sensors working in conjunction with a two-track slotted disk to have the ability to identify in one-degree increments the position of the crankshaft.

How do you test an Optispark distributor?

to diagnose it. Check to see if you have a signal from the PCM to the ICM on the white wire. While someone cranks it over, check the white wire to ground for 1-4 volts on the AC scale. If that’s there, the problem is between the ICM and the coil.

How is Optispark diagnosed?

Can you test an Optispark?

How does the Optispark distributor work?

The Optispark distributor allows for both fine and coarse tuning of the engine timing and has a certain amount of redundancy because of the presence of those two timing rings. Should something short of catastrophic failure (which usually happens anyway) interfere with either timing signal, the engine can continue to run at reduced power levels.

What causes a bad Opti?

The multiple spark errodes the contacts inside the rotor very rapidly. MSDs have been responsible for lots of opti failures, particularly on boosted cars. There are some nice options out there to eliminate the opti all together now, including just taking the high voltage side offline and continuing to use the cam sensor part.

What causes a spark plug distributor to go bad?

The other half is the high voltage section where the rotor conducts the spark just like any other distributor. This half can also be affected by moisture and also over time the high voltage creates ozone inside the cap that corrodes the contacts.

What are the parts of a GM Optispark?

The “opti” has two parts, a low-voltage optical section and a high-voltage cap and rotor section. What is it? The GM Optispark is an optically-triggered ignition distributor used on the LT1, LT4 and L99 engines.