fbodyfreek

i was thinking about getting this with my next pay check, but it's a pricey unit ($515 from summit). my thinking was that i was gonna complete the exhaust next and while i was gonna have to replace my plugs and wires i was just going to replace the opti while i was ahead. plus this unit allow me to easily adjust timing and i want to spray. i know it's not entirely necessary but are there any thoughts on this? would i be throwing away money or is it a good investment? thanks.

buffman

iTrader: (9)

My advice, spend the money elsewhere.

The Engineer

How many miles does you current Opti have and how many RPM are you turning it. Personally, I like to replace old and worn parts before they fail.

WD

Schweet97Z

iTrader: (35)

you either love it or hate it. i am going to give it a try.

fbodyfreek

i've got between 101 and 102k on it turning 6500rpms.

jakesz28

iTrader: (9)

If your going to spray the car I wouldn't use the msd opti to adjust the timing. I would get an idnition box with adjustable retard control or buy tunercats. You will have to make some timing marks if you are going to play with the msd opti's timing screw. And you will be leaving n/a power on the table by retarding timing there. If you run a mallory 685 box you can pull timing while spraying.

But I do like the msd unit. Good luck

BOLO

iTrader: (40)

Save your money or spend it on other parts. If you want to replace your opti,just buy a new one from GM. If installed correctly and kept away from moisture (under carriage washing) it should last a long time. As far as rpm, I spin mine to 6500 shift points with no problem.

fbodyfreek

hmmm.. i guess that would make sense. maybe i'll just buy drag radials or something instead cuz it's not like i need one entirely yet. thanks for the input!

Leedogg

iTrader: (2)

I picked up 14 hp by switching to the MSD...even with a 12 bolt that was also new. I made 934 with the stock unit- and stock 10 bolt w/4/10's. Then made 408 with the MSD Pro-billet with a Strange 12 bolt and 3.90 gears. Curve was much smoother.

I was a hard core believer in the MSD...but at the track a couple of months ago- the car puked the MSD too. i think it is something in my engine causing this- I have been through 5 optis(all factory GM's from the dealer, until the MSD) in 30,000 miles with the 383 setup. The MSD did last longer than the others(~7,000 miles), and they were way harder miles.


EDIT- just saw your signature...yeah I would definately spend the money elsewhere. IMO- the stock peice is fine for your power output/stock compression. I would put the cash towards a nice stall convertor if I was you.

1970judge

iTrader: (12)

Its not necessary til your Stocker is going out. However, i LOVE the MSD unit. Beware there is two different part numbers depending on your year model. If you have the money, then i say why not, it will be the first and foremost mod on my next LTx car.

XxApollynxX

iTrader: (2)

I put on the MSD Opti, MSD Wires, MSD Coil, NGK Plugs, car runs so much better, then when I replaced it with a GM Opti/Parts. I'd say if you want it go for it, it's an awesome piece!

roadhog_113

if u are worried about it failing you can switch to a lsx coil pack design and never worry about it again. i would say that is more worth it.

The Engineer

My MSD Opti is performing really well in my car and is more durable then the GM at high RPM. Also, I slightly tweaked the timing adjustment screw on my MSD Opti (more advance) and my car picked-up a full tenth! Initially, I had some issues with the MSD rotor screws getting loose. However, I used some Allen socket-head machine screws with flat washers and thread-locker for the rotor and haven’t had any more problems.

WD

96capricemgr

iTrader: (1)

Be aware that most people are too STUPID to understand gains they see with a whole new ignition system are because they were replacing worn out parts.

In a case like The Engineer's above it means his tune was wrong if he gained by playing with the screw.

buffman

iTrader: (9)

All conversions still need a working opti, so you're still not any ahead.

96capricemgr

iTrader: (1)

Again we are back to the fact most people are too stupid to understand much of anything.

BizZzatch350

iTrader: (33)

Rather just use the GM Units, had good luck with them. The current one has lasted 6 years with out an issue (cross fingers)

ABA383

iTrader: (1)

Yeah, I think there's a lot of hit and miss scenarios going on with the MSD optis...I replaced my stocker with another stocker a few years ago and its been fine...I went with a true AC Delco GM original, though...I spin mine to 6500 all the time...

--Alan

The Engineer

Possibly stupid, but still going "much faster' than you! 10.80s w/ 1.48 60fts and a few more upgrades inprogress.

WD

buffman

iTrader: (9)

you got him there. Although he still has a little three fiddy, and has a few hundred lbs over you