problems starting

**USMC81812** · 10-01-2012, 02:18 AM

I have a 1995 Trans Am and sometimes it has trouble starting up and even times it will die on my while driving I have no idea what it could be and was wondering if anyone had any ideas this is my first trans am so I have no idea what I'm doing in it

**pajeff02** · 10-01-2012, 03:43 AM

Check the fuel pressure and maybe change the fuel filter. I always start with the basics when diagnosing problems like this -- the engine needs air, fuel and spark to run. Is your check engine light on?

**USMC81812** · 10-01-2012, 04:37 AM

No the check engine light isn't on the guy that I bought it from said it was something to do with a module on the front of the block but I took it to my mechanic and he couldn't find it either

***SMWS6TA*** · 10-01-2012, 08:22 AM

He is most likely talking about the Opti spark. It is on the front of the block. It cause more problems on LT1's then any other component. It is also a major PITA to do, but you can do it in the garage. Reason it's a PITA is because you have to remove water pump in order to get to the opti.

When it comes to ignition, starting and running with a LT1 always check the opti.

***SMWS6TA*** · 10-01-2012, 08:32 AM

just follow the spark plug wires to the opti. above is a pic of it.

The issues that opti has is because of the location that it is at. It is exposed to water from the road, direct heat from the block and water pump. Very poor design.

As long as you have a LT1 you will start to get very good at fixing this. I have a buddy that has to replace his every 12-18 months.

There is a fix called the 24X conversion. It's not cheap, about $900-1200 after all of the parts need for it. This conversion lets you drop the opti and let's you use LS1 coil packs. It consist of a new wire harness, ls1 coils and some other items. The coils and harness are the 2 most expensive things for the conversion.

If your mechanic doesn't know how to work on LT1's you should find one that does.