1985-1998 [Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
I would inspect the shifter coupler, though inability to access 4th isn't the usual symptom. It's a simple check though, so I'd give it a try. Here's how:
If your 9000 has been experiencing severe shifting problems, then the shifter coupling is probably at fault. The most common symptom is the inability to access gears other than third or forth.
The linkage for the shifter travels out of the fire all and meets the linkage coming out of the gear box at the coupler which links the two together. It is a rubber square with four threaded studs coming out of it. This design is to reduce vibrations to the shifter and to allow the transmission to slide under the seating area in case of a severe accident. Unfortunately, it is also rather failure prone.
You can see the coupler from above by leaning well over the engine and looking down behind it. You should see the metal shaft extending out of the firewall, behind the intake manifold towards the right side, fairly near the brake fluid reservoir. It is probably easier to access from below the car and it can be located by following either the shaft extending from the transmission or the fire wall.
A damaged coupler may not be noticeably from a visual assessment. Have someone work the shifter while you watch for separation of the rubber block or try the clamp/tie method below or just replace the darn thing.
As a cheap trick to test or temporarily repair the coupler, you can secure the the separating block together with either hose clamps or zip ties. It may be a good idea to carry a couple long (7 in.) zip ties with you just in case of failure, especially if you are not sure of the condition of your coupler.
To replace the coupler, simply undo and remove the four bolts (10mm I believe), pull the old rubber block out, and replace it with the new one. It may be helpful to use a large screw driver to slip the new block in and it may also help to have the shifter in a certain position so the two linkages line up nicely. Basically it's an easy job, but getting to the coupler can be half the trouble. Most people recommend tackling the job from underneath.
Craig
No Site Registration is Required to Post - Site Membership is optional (Member Features List), but helps to keep the site online
for all Saabers. If the site helps you, please consider helping the site by becoming a member.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
