Date: Sat, 16 Oct 1999 06:08:37 -0500 From: johnw <jwebsnopsam.net> Subject: 1984 900S clutch repair, gas mi. question
People were interested in some follow-up on the clutch/shifter problems on my 1984 900S, so here it is: My local Saab mechanic, who is turning out to be very good I think, told me I need a new clutch, but I was skeptical. The clutch had been making a vibrating noise (sort of a hum/rattle) at certain rpm when I was engaging/disengaging it. He told me this was the "throw-out bearing(?)" about to go. Then, it started engaging when the pedal was closer and closer to the floor. Then I couldn't even shift with the pedal on the floor. (I still need to pick up the Bentley or other book(s) to do some of this myself, or at least have better knowledge of the engine mechanics etc...my 1984 Jetta GLI seemed so simple in comparison.) I was thinking cable adustment or other small adjustment. After he checked it out he said it needs a whole new clutch for $504. I just wanted the car to drive, so I questioned him a little and said go for it. Afterward, he said the bearings had totally dropped out and it really needed the replacement. Then, turns out the popping out of fifth problem is a bushing in the linkage that is slightly worn, and "too short." So he adjusted the linkage and it stays in 5th gear now. So now the clutch and transmission work great, smooth and solid, and I can really drive the thing to it's potential, and what a sweet drive it is. It loves the highway. This is a great car and I've still only spent about $1,500 on it for purchase and repairs. Question: what kind of gas mileage should I be getting? Before I could get into 5th, driving at 65mph in 4th (3000rpm) I could almost see the gas needle drop, which is understandable. Now it's better (2800rpm at 75mph in 5th). I'd guess this car should get about 28mpg highway? All this talk about the car makes me want to go out for spin. -johnw -- john s. webster the vortext group -- writing svcs. 218 waterman st. #306c providence, rhode island 02906 phone/fax: (401) 273-5567 email: jwebsnopsam.net ---------------------------------------------
