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I have had similar experiences Posted by Sondeen [Email] (#796) [Profile/Gallery] (more from Sondeen) on Sat, 10 Nov 2018 10:56:48 In Reply to: Re: You need a better technician., 900Fyb, Sat, 10 Nov 2018 10:27:16 Members do not see ads below this line. - Help Keep This Site Online - Signup |
I have found that these 3 screws can get surprisingly difficult to remove for annual oil changes even if I was careful not to over-tighten them the last time around. I suspect galvanic corrosion forms between the steel bolts and aluminum head. I can imagine if the caddy mechanic over torqued them, they could be quite stuck by now. When mine are stuck I put a torx socket on a typical 3/8 drive ratchet to get some extra leverage. If that won’t work for you, I would hesitate to use a big breaker bar as you might shear the screw. I would be more concerned about that then breaking the valve cover. At that point, I have a few options to consider.
1. Try soaking the screws with liquid wrench or PB blaster to loosen the galvalic corrosion. Apply all around the head, give it a few days to work down into the thread.
1a. After soaking. Tap the screw heads with a hammer, many light taps to help break the corrosion. This often works for stuck brake rotor screws.
2. Above option may not work as the plastic shield may prevent the liquid from getting to the thread. In this case, cut or break the plastic shield off and leave the bolts in place. Break / cut the plastic from around the bolts, then apply the liquid wrench. If you are able to get the screws out, then replace the shield, or you can forgo the shield all together. This approach avoids having to worry about a sheared screw or mess with a new valve cover. Just be careful cutting, as there are wire harnesses under the shield if I recall correctly. I’d use a dremel tool with a small cut off wheel. Or maybe score the plastic with a utility knife and then bend it to break it away.
3. If you do end up needing a valve cover, I am sure you can get one new. Just call one of the site sponsors and ask them to check with SAAB parts North America.. Salvage is another option, but junk yards may wish to keep whole engines together.
And to answer you question, all these screws do is hold the plastic shield to the valve cover.
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