Swapping coils.

[JeremiahCoffel]

I'm wanting to get rid of the IDI cover and the damn overheated coil packs. I've read a few places that I can switch to coils from a '95-'97 2.2 Cavalier motor. This way I could mount them anywhere I choose and they'd be cooled, plus I can get better performance out of it. I'm just confused on how to do so. I know I need the 2.2 coils, the mounting bracket, and the connector for the ICM, with a good length of wire attatched to it. Do I have to get the ICM from a 2.2 for it to work with a 2.3? I know I have to 'piggyback' the ICM connector to the old one, I don't want to cut it off 'cause I may want to return to stock, or if it doesn't work like I hoped it can be fixed. I can get both coils for about $20 new, and then go to a JY and pick up the connector, but I'm needing to know whether or not I need the 2.2 ICM or if I can use the 2.3 stock ICM. Any help is appreciated. ;)

[Matt95GT]

I personally think the 2.2 coil swap is a complete waste. Most of those advising it also happen to have things to sell you.

If you're having ignition system problems, I would replace what you have now with some healthy parts. New 2.3 IDI parts will but much more solid than complicating the existing setup with other parts and having to run plug wires.

[VanishingImage]

don't bother doing the switch

The coil on plug setup is much more reliable. Just replace the old stuff with new parts like Matt said. I had problems but all I had to do was replace my plug boots and the motor was just as good as new in the ignition area

[JeremiahCoffel]

I've replaced everything, besides the IDI cover and the ICM, the ICM tested good, and the IDI cover has no signs of arcing anywhere. I think I will just replace the IDI cover anyway.

[Matt95GT]

Don't worry about the cover... it's the plastic housing you need to check for hairline cracks or arching.