Date: Fri, 22 Jun 2001 11:11:39 -0600 From: "RONALD M FRIESEN" <rfriesennopsamigy.net> Subject: Timing chain
My Saab tech has suggested that I replace the timing chain in my '87 900s w/187,000 miles on odometer. This is being proposed mainly as a preventive measure rather than to cure a major problem. The chain is somewhat noisy. The job is quoted at $300 for an in the car job. A broken chain would entail pulling the engine at ?, possibly over $1000 Its a very well maintained car with a first rate black finish. I'm aiming for 300K+ so try to keep on top of things and follow the Saab maintenance schedule plus replace things as they start to wear but before they break. Questions: 1.Anyone with experience with a broken timing chain in a Saab engine. At what mileage? If so, is it a destructive event to valves etc? 2.Has anyone replaced a timing chain as a "preventative" measure? At what mileage 3.What are the signs/symptoms that indicate the timing chain should be replaced. 4.Anything in the line of advice. I see my tech as honest, giving good advice and conservative in reccomendations for repair so I see no reason not to trust him or the service manager. Each of this 4 or 5 person independent shop has over 10 years experience in a Saab dealership in a town with probably the highest Saab registration per square block in the US. Ron Friesen Loveland, CO