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After lurking for a while, I finally decided to post. I just purchased a '94 900S 5DR, manual trans. w/110K miles. This is my third SAAB purchase: my first was an '86 900; the second was a '96 900S, both of which were purchased new. I got the '94 at a great price, just had it checked out by French's here in the D/FW area, and was given the following laundry list of repairs which total approx. $2,500.00. The body and interior is in excellent condition; mechanically, the car runs very well. The only cosmetic flaw is the headlight washers are missing -- expensive to replace (which I may or may not eventually do when I consider potential washer problems) -- otherwise, beautiful black car. Some of the repairs may be DIY if I can get proper guidance and instructions (while I am a girlie-girl, I don't mind getting my hands dirty -- especially if I can save some money). Anyhow, here's the list of repairs, listed in order of priority given by my mechanic:
1. Windshield washers not working. Mechanic needs an hour to check out problem -- this is just determining the problem not repairing. Washer makes noise like pump is working, but no washer fluid comes out. With some direction from some of you, I might be able to locate the source of the problem and repair it myself.
2. Remove and replace positive battery cable. Yikes, this part is expensive. Is this something I could DIY, or is it better left to a qualified mechanic? I've considered finding a used one in VGC. The part alone is $133.20 new, plus one hour labor. Any suggestions?
3. Remove and replace both heater hoses. I think I can do this. Isn't it as simple as removing the clamps, removing the old hoses and clamping on new hoses? Or is it more to it than this?
4. Remove and replace upper radiator hose. Same questions as for Question No. 3. Mechanic didn't suggest replacing lower hose, but should I replace it, as well? Do I need any special tools? Or should I leave this to a mechanic?
5. Replace distributor for oil leak. This part is $325.00. I can get a rebuilt one for about $125.00. What are pros/cons of rebuilt? Also, is this a DIY? I replaced a distributor on a '72 Mustang about 25 years ago, but cars have changed dramatically since then. If it's as simple as "connect the wires," I could probably do it -- I just don't wanna blow anything up! Is this something that should only be done by a SAAB mechanic, or can any good mechanic take care of this?
6. Oil leak at tranny to engine. Needs to remove engine to replace seals. Mechanic suggested I replace clutch at the same time. I'll certainly have him do this. Funny thing is, clutch works great. Didn't replace clutch on my '96 900S until 160K. Sure hate to part with $1,300.00 for a $23.00 part, but I guess it makes sense to take care of the clutch while the engines out. I've read that some SAABers go to a hydraulic clutch instead of the clutch cable. Is this safe/advisable. What are pros/cons?
7. Tech 2 will not communicate with system. Mechanic needs two hours' labor to determine the problem. The red inverted triangle with exclamation mark stays on always. The seller advised me that he had the ABS sensor replaced. If any of you can suggest some tests I can do at home, please let me know.
All in all, I don't think this is a whole lot to do to a 10 year old car. I apologize for the long post, but I hoped that by posting in this manner, I could get enummerated responses in one location. Thanks so much in advance for any help you can give.
Francine
posted by 68.94.22...
, Tue, 16 Nov 2004 21:58:05, Wed, 17 Nov 2004 15:15:52
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