Well, I posted a while ago about replacing just the cap and rotor on my LT1, I was looking back then for options. I finally decided to go with the new kit from MSD, and let me tell you that it looks like a good product in quality. Its already installed, and what a big difference in throttle response, while I was at it I also decided to replace timing chain and gears. To me this kit was the best option for quality and price. My LT1 is a 1994, so its the first Optispark design, the kit also comes with a redesign on the cap to improve ventilation by sealling the 3 holes at the bottom of the opti, and adding one ventilation port on top of rear part of distributor cap, it should be more efficient. Well, I just wanted to share my experience, car is running like a champ, I really liked this product.

Here's one question thats been going around in my head: My car also has MSD 6AL, I've been using champion platinum power spark plugs indicated in the parts catalog to fit my LT1. I am getting the most out of the MSD 6AL with them? are there any better that won't limit spark output? non-resistor spark plugs? What are you members runinng in a similar set up? Any part number that I can get at my local auto parts stores? Thanks in advance for any comments/inputs.

 

I imagine you to be running N/A but with nitrous, the platinum becomes brittle and breaks off. Copper Autolite 106's (stock heat range) are about $1.09 each at Wal-Mart. A spark is a spark.

 

Now the MSD parts might be an actual upgrade it just irritates me to see people replace tuneup parts like a cap and rotor and then talk like that brand was responsible for the increased throtle response. I have no doubt that you did notice better throttle responce BUT I am equally sure you did this BECAUSE THE STOCK PARTS WERE WORN AND FAILING so any new parts would have increased throttle response. If you did it just because you have been convinced by internet ignorance that the stock parts were bad well then your input should be ignored anyway. Glad you are happy with your purchase just think giving MSD credit for something new stock parts would have done is wrong. I do sincerely hope the MSD cap and rotor do PROVE to be very good parts but they have not done so yet just because they are so new.

On the plugs platinums one advantage is less gap erosion, copper plugs will get you every bit as much power for less money but will require replacement more often, the 106s mentioned are good for most aluminum head NA LT1s but with the ignition if you find those to ping a little you might try the 104 as it is a hair cooler, for boost or spray 103 or 104.

 

I did replaced cap and rotor in fact because old was failing. I also attribute the better throttle response to the fact that I also replaced timing chain and gears. All I am saying is that it seems like a nice up step from ANY other new STOCK cap and rotor when it comes to price and quality. Nothing wrong with stock cap and rotor, but this kit from MSD really has its advantages with the ventilation redesign. Why convert to the second design of optispark when you get the same benefits with just this cap and rotor replacement...... I'm assuming you know whats involed in converting to the newer style of optis(95-97) in a 93-94......but I guess thats off-topic.

Back to spark plugs, I've been told that I should use non-resistor plugs like those made by Accel in order to get a stronger spark output AT the electrode of the plug since stock have a built in resistance that limits this.... any more comments on this? thanks once again for any inputs.

 

well luckily for us B-body guys all LT1 b-cars including 94s came with the vented opti spark. Pending on what kind of reviews this unit gets, I might one to throw on my spare opti so it's ready to go on incase it needs to be.

 

Hey Buffman, are those valve covers on your engine from a stock lt1 corvette? Do they fit without modifications on your B-body?

 

They ARE better. One day you will relize that the Brass works much better and lasts longer then the aluminum GM uses. I have pulled many opti's apart and even after 500 miles they are melting down. Large carbon build ups on the posts and carbon tracking every where.

We will know in the Next year about the MSD but from a design and materails stand point it IS a better part

No matter how hard you beat on people it is the best thing since sliced bread the Opti STILL has flaw's Deal with it!

 

I thought the GM optis used Brass posts? It sure looked like brass to me. but that's just me ASSUMING

 

Valve covers or the fuel rail covers? The valve covers (powdercoated red) are just the stock valve covers. They fit just fine.

The Fuel rail covers are the ones that came from the Vettes. To Fit on the B-body, You have to do some cutting to get the driver's side one to fit around the fuel lines. I just painted the letters red and added some fancy paint.

You don't have to cut this much, but I do so the cover comes off a lot easier.

 

Saying something is better based solely on materials is still WRONG. IMO NOTHING can be pronounced better till it is tested in actual use better there is still posibility for some other flaw or unforseen problem.
I genuinely hope it does work out to be a very good piece and that not a single rotor shatters at high revs but till they are proven in actual use to hold up longer or to high rpms than the stocker saying they "are better" is irresponsible, and no number of sheeple claiming it is better based on marketting and materials will change my mind. I am not saying it can't be better just demanding people be objective and wait for some results before pronouncing it wonderful.

 

Sorry Buffman, I did mean fuel rail covers... any more hardware needed to get them to fit? For how much do they run?

 

I think the covers are $30 a piece from DAL. the stock hardware studs that are used to attach the covers to the intake manifold I think are fairly cheap. I myself as you can see made my own mounting solution since the stock hardware is crap. Im not sure what else is needed to do it on an F-body, but I had to purchase the Vette brake booster hose, because the stock B-body one is in the way of the cover.