[1994MLC]

My Bad. Detailed my 94 coupe in preparation for winter storage. Pressure washed the engine compartment (ran for 10 minutes after). Then detailed the rest of the car and fixed a few things. Went to start the engine; turns over but no spark. It's obivious I got something wet. But what? I blew off everything with compressed air three times. I fired up the torpedo heater (garage is at 100 degrees). Not quite sure where to go from here. Any ideas? Do you think after time, things will dry out enough for engine start?

[Slicktop]

Probably got moisture in the optispark distributor. If so there is no way to dry it out without removing it and taking it apart.

[vetteoz]

Originally Posted by 1994MLC

Pressure washed the engine compartment

There are reasons why you don't do that on a LT1

http://www.theformulasource.com/foru...howtopic=16824

http://www.impalassforum.com/vBullet...87&postcount=9

[1994MLC]

Nice. Seemed like a good idea at the time. Done this many times before on other vehicles. This might be one of those situations where I say, "I'll never do that agian!" Looks like this is going to be a real P.I.T.A. Thanks to the both of you. I now have starting point. Great links, very helpful.

[mat helm]

I too have pressure washed many engines. My routine is to warm it up and leave it running during and well after using the pressure washer. But what you can't do is use it like you would a sandblaster. I think the idea is to not subject it to much more than it would see going down the road at 70 in a blinding rain storm, which means keeping your distance with the wand. I use westley's tire cleaner, and mostly use the pressure washer to clean the rubber n plastics. You can get some of the grease n crud build up, but only after you've hand scrubbed it lose. I've never had an issue, but you are always taking a chance.

One thing to consider in you instance, is you maybe found a weak point in your opti spark that would of left you broke down on the side of the road in a rain storm.

btw, you could try spraying down the opti with some WD40. It was made to displace water in this exact instance. It also contains no oil, so no eating away on the electronics.....

[lostvette]

I have a 88 With a Hei ! & all the storys I've Heard!.... about OPTI SPARK SUCKS !

[1994MLC]

As I was tracing the ignition leads, I found possibly a related/un-related problem. The number 5 lead was resting against the exhaust manifold. As I was inspecting it, the lead seperated. Certianly was a break-down waiting to happen. What are your thoughts? Do you think I have two problems? Optispark and the #5 lead??

[mat helm]

One lead grounding out won't keep it from starting, so I'd say you have two...

[crossflag]

Originally Posted by mat helm

One lead grounding out won't keep it from starting, so I'd say you have two...

I agree, While recently checking for clearance with roller rockers under the covers I pulled 4 plug wires while my buddy tapped the engine over. The engine still started! A few years back I did my opti in doing the very same thing! Also did in the knock sensors on my 04 silverado by washing the engine. On the bright side, instead of storing your car you now have A winter project!

[crossflag]

Originally Posted by Slicktop

Probably got moisture in the optispark distributor. If so there is no way to dry it out without removing it and taking it apart.

These are not worth while taking apart with all the work to get to them.
I recomend changing the water pump while your at it