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Clicking/knocking is not a common tranny symptom that I've seen here. The usual big issue is the pinion bearing, which whines when it goes bad. You'll hear the whine most easily in 3/4/5 above about 30 mph while accelerating. If the pinion bearing gets bad, it could cause other noises.
Another issue to consider is the clutch shaft bearing. If it has failed, it prevents the clutch shaft from free-wheeling in the center of the flywheel when the clutch is disengaged. This causes difficulty in changing gears and grinding/clashing of the synchros. If the clutch has a bad master or slave cylinder, it may not be disengaging properly and that also will cause grinding/clashing of the synchros.
Also consider the possibility that you have a bad motor mount. The front and right mount are most likely to fail (and are easiest to replace). Test by opening the hood, and start the car. While stepping firmly on the brake, let the clutch out with the car in gear (you may need to give it a bit of gas to prevent stalling the engine). If the engine lifts up significantly, a motor mount is broken.
It may be worthwhile to get a diagnosis from someone who knows Saabs before committing to removing the tranny. It's a big job.
The transmission can be dropped out the bottom without removing the engine. I don't know whether they are still available, but I think I posted the instructions here a long time ago. Do a search. The last time I did it, I think it took 3-4 hours. The first time took quite a bit longer. You'll need someone that knows Saab transmissions to do the rebuild. Upgrading the pinion bearing to the Ericksson mod is probably worthwhile and be sure to replace the clutch shaft bearing while you're at it.
posted by 71.212.221...
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