new lt1 where do i start?

[MARKDTN]

I would use a harness from either Howell or Street and Performance. They can also do the ECM for you.

I would not add a distributor to an LT1. Either do the late '95 up style swap(may already have it) with the vented opti or do the coil on plug style conversion like an LS. There are kits to do it and they work well. If you do keep the opti-spark use only a Delco unit (also use only a Delco water pump), don't bother with aftermarket. If the opti or the water pump have more than 10,000 miles on it change them both while the engine is out. If you haven't read by now, the opti is the Archiles Heel of the LT1. The waterpump seal goes out and gets the opti wet and then it won't run. Replace them both with new Delco parts and you will be much happier for a while.

[GMCJOE]

Yeah, the opti is the life support of the engine. The only proven way to stop the failure is to eliminate it all together.