Date: Mon, 13 Apr 1998 14:44:15 -0700 From: Justin VanAbrahams <jvanabranopsamnet> Subject: Re: Is it a good buy?
Zach Hope wrote: > > I found an '88 900 Turbo, 5 spd., 3 dr., sunroof, leather, 92k miles, > light gray for $3500. I was wondering about the reliability of the '88 > 900 Turbos. I have heard a couple of different viewpoints. Obviously, > it depends on the owner's maintainence, but what seems to be the overall > concensus, especially compared to an '89 or '90. Also, what should I > look for on this specific model if I go and look at it? Thanks a lot. > > Zach There are no mechanical differences between any 16v 900T. A *small* change occured in mid 1988, when the oil supply lines for the valves was changed, but unless you hear clicking or valve slap it doesn't matter. In 1990, Saab 900s got LH 2.4 injection (instead of the earlier 2.2) but other than that there is no difference between an '86 or a '93. As I said in an earlier posting, 1988 saw the intro of a water-cooled turbo, so that's a plus. The only year to watch out for is '85... Be wary of a $3500 '88. Not to say it isn't possible, but most Saabs I've looked at in that price range *do* have problems. Check the power steering for leaks, check for clicking under the valve cover, verify there are no exhaust leaks, check the exhaust manifold to see if any oil has dripped on it from a leaking valve cover. There are infinite numbers of things to check, actually... my recommendation (being really full of myself) is to check out my website: http://csrtech.sac.bfp.net/saabweb/9cbuyfaq.htm and definitely have it looked at by a mechanic! -Justin