Wtf???????????????????????
Cap and rotor problems are far more common then sensor problems, but the location of the unit usually makes it a good idea to change both at the same time anyway.
BUT...if you notice when the WP is weaping or leaking, you prolong the life of the opti. Also, when it comes time for a replacement, using a genuine AC Delco/Delphi replacement and thread locking the rotor screws and sealing the cap with RTV will more than likely ensure opti-related-problem-free driving experience for at least 100k miles.
Trending Topics
The Best V8 Stories One Small Block at Time
Get a new AC Delco or Delphi opti from "thepartsladi" on Ebay.
Worst case scenario, taking your time, and with a few trips to AZ, an opti replacement shouldn't take you more than 6 hours to complete. I can get it done in about 2 (but I've had a lot of practice).
You will need new WP gaskets (2), coolant, razor blade or gasket scraper, 3 jaw puller to remove the crank balancer, standard tools (sockets and wrenches), torque wrench...that's about it.
Procedure:
*Before you start, remove the cap of the new opti and remove each rotor screw carefully and replace it with a dab of thread locker on the threads. Do it one at a time. You will need a E4 socket (you can get one from autozone).
-drain rad
-undo hoses to WP
-remove radiator shroud and fans
-unbolt WP from block
-unbolt and use jaw puller (puller not always necessary, but you'll likely have to use it) to pull off crank balancer.
-rotate crank hub so that the opti can be removed. You'll see what I mean.
-unbolt the old opti
-install new opti
*be sure that it is indexed correctly!
-reverse of removal
*install WP with new seal and connect all hoses. Undo the thermostat housing, pull out the thermostat and fill up at the water pump before you put the thermostat back in and bolt the housing back on. This will prevent creating an air pocket at the thermostat. Open both bleeder screws as you fill up the radiator.
Some helpful links:
http://shbox.com/1/93-94_opti.jpg
http://shbox.com/1/93-94_hoses.jpg
http://shbox.com/1/heater_hoses_93-94.jpg
http://shbox.com/ci/water_pump.jpg
http://shbox.com/ci/opti_mounting.jpg (that is a '95-'97 opti in the diagram, but that will give you an idea as to how it mounts to the timing cover).
http://shbox.com/ci/balancer_hub.jpg
Last edited by ss.slp.ls1; Mar 27, 2009 at 08:29 PM.



