1994 Pontiac Firebird Optispark Problems?

Question

Car starts out fine then as it runs seems to lose power.Occasiionally powere window won't go up just installed new motor last 6 months started working fine.Also tach fluxes up and down when flux up now engine rev on it's own but when it goes down motor seems to almost feel like it wants to stall.One other thing is that it seems that I have excessive heat coming from the floor.Is this an optispark prob? Can I test it somehow? If I can't test it is it possible to get a used one and see if that fixes it or aren't they interchangeble?Sory so many questions ,but just like to know all possibilties.HELP HELP HELP!

Answer 1

Check out the Optispark Disection page @



I'd say your Optispark is the non-vented (early)model since, it is on your 94 Bird. Whereas the vented Optispark came out in the 95 (and later)models and was alot better for not givin or cuz'in alot of problems. So if, you do end up replacin it, go w/ the vented, later model if, poss.

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Q: Why has my car developed a bad hesitation problem (Optispark)?

A: First, check to your spark plugs wires and make sure none have come off. A few people have already experienced this problem. Then rule out any type of problem with the fuel system (injectors or pump) and air intake (loose clamp or hose). If those are okay, it's most likely your Optispark system. It's the pseudo-distributor of the distributorless LT1 where all the spark plug wires connect into. If water gets in there, it's as good as toast. Definitely head to your dealer to get it replaced as it will start eating your plug and wires in no time if there's something really wrong with it. A hesitation problem due to the Optispark will usually be noticed in certain RPM range. Most commonly, it is in the upper range (3500 - 5000 RPM). But it can certainly develop in the lower or mid ranges as well. You might even get some back-firing. The problem is most common on the 1993 and 1994 LT1s, as in 1995 a vacuum line was added from the intake manifold to the Optispark to draw moisture out of the unit. However, excessive water can cause even 1995 and later cars to develop the problem.
[\QUOTE]

Oh yea, the window sounds like you may need to lube the window seal, alill. I'm faced w/ a similar problem on my 02 Z28, on the 'slow' passenger's side window.

Good luck!

Answer 2

For the power window problem, the general and most often problem for an intermittent or a window that won't work at all is broken or nearly broken wires that run from the cab of the car into the door. They get work hardened from the door being opened and closed and that little bit of the same movement eventually starts to break the wire physically. You would have to open the rubber grommet that goes from the cab into the door close to the hinges to inpsect.

The other problem could be trouble. Are you sure you have an optispark? This is the distributor assembly that fits onto the camshaft and resides behind the water pump. If you do, the first and best things to look for is to remove all spark plug wire connectors including the coil one and inspect for any signs of corrosion or carbon tracking. If you see anything, replace the complete set and don't cheap out by buying the aftermarket crap. Get the original ones from GM as they have to fit into the areas where there's a lot of heat. If you find corrosion on the coil tower, replace it as the corrosion is under the plastic part and you can't clean it. If you don't find any corrosion you don't have this problem so don't arbitrarily replace parts. The problem with the optispark is generally an intermittent misfire that happens inside the rotor and cap area. If you have this, then you will need to replace the cap and rotor after removing the water pump. If you find corrosion when looking at the wires inside the connections into the cap, you will have to replace the cap and rotor. You might be lucky and find all of this is okay and still have a misfire though. This might mean that you have a faulty spark plug or two, so good luck changing those. If you go to change the plugs, replace all of them and change the fuel filter as well. You can also try a power flush to the injection system to make sure the injectors are not causing a lean condition which will show up as a misfire and an occasional rough running motor. I would start with a scan of the PCM to see if it has detected anything which will give you a hint on which way to start your chase. Progress to the corrosion thing, the fuel filter, plugs, and only after to the cap and rotor unless you find corrosion. A lot of times it could be something else so be sure before replacing parts. Good luck.

Answer 3

With the problems you describe, the engine management computer should have stored one or more trouble codes.

Most major automotive parts stores will connect a code scanner and get the trouble codes from the computer for you.

With the modern computer controlled engines, it is not wise to randomly throw parts at it. You can end up spending a lot of money on parts you don't need. You will also get frustrated by spending a lot of money and time and still have a car that doesn't run right. You could be throwing a lot of money at something as simple as a bad ground.

Sometimes you are better off to admit that you are in over your head.

You may want to bring it to a reputable mechanic. This may save you money in the long run as you will be less likely installing unnecessary parts.

You may even want to bite the bullet and go to your local GM dealer. They will be more expensive, but will almost certainly get it right the first time. This could save you time, money, and frustration in the long run because they won't guess and throw random parts at it hoping to stumble upon the real problem.

Answer 4

Optispark Problems

Answer 5

It'll run you a good 1000 or 1500