Date: Sun, 06 Mar 2005 23:27:05 -0500 From: ma_twain <ma_twainnospamo.com> Subject: Re: Head gasket in 900SE V6
CasualBloke wrote: > Hi, > > I checked out a Saab 900SE for possible purchase today. Apparently it > failed its emissions test and a blown HG has been diagnosed as the > problem. It is a '95 with 54k "original" miles. Overall it is in good > shape and the motor runs smoothly - consistent with the mileage. Asking > price is $3500, as is. Current owner says he cannot afford to get the > work done, which he says he has priced at $1000-1500 > > Thought I would take the advice form the group on this one. I have been a > Saab owner previously so I know they can cost plenty. Does this seem like > a reasonable buy. I am willing to take some risk. Also, is this a job > that a person with reasonable mechanical aptitude and a service manual - > I have done this type of work before, but on "classic cars", i.e. no > elaborate engine management equipment. There are some questions that bug > me, such as why would a car with 54k blow a head gasket? Overheating? If > so, would that mean more serious head damage than just the gasket. > > All opinions welcome!!! > > Thanks. > > Cheers, > Brian. > > > The GM V6 engine in this car has earned the reputation as a engine to avoid. At this point you know you have to replace the blown head gasket. This engine needs the timing belt changed every 30K miles. I would replace the timing belt when you replace the head gasket. You would want to check and see if you need the head replaced as well. There is a reason the owner is selling the car. I have heard the figure of $1,200 to replace this timing belt, I hope I heard wrong. If you need the head replaced you could be spending more on repairs than the cost of the car - which would explain why the owner is selling the car.
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