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1994-2002 [Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
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My '97 900 SE aquired a whining noise a few months back and had progressively been getting louder. After replacing my turbo 6 weeks ago, I was able to drive it to the dealer (Portland Saab, Falmouth, ME) for them to diagnose the whining sound (a month ago). The Tech was certain it was the alternator. He loosened the belt and "somehow" concluded it was the alternator. After spending $40 (1/2 hour labor) for the diagnosis, I ordered a replacement 90 AMP Bosch from Eeuroparts.com. I was alarmed that the alternator was just replaced 2 years ago (Oct 31st) I also ordered a new belt for precaution. Driving down to Boston on Friday Oct 31st (Halloween), the whining became really loud just 30 min north of Boston on I95 (the stretch where it merges with Rt 128 where there are no breakdown lanes) Anyway, I suddenly lost power and was running on my battery. The nearest exit was a few miles ahead as I watch the temp gauge rise slowly. Fortunately I made it off I95 and into a Sheraton parking lot. -Pulled out my flashlight and opened the hood to find what was left of the tensioner pulley.. not much! Ironically I "was" going to order a new replacement pulley earlier in the week as a precaution as Today was going to be replace the alternator day (Sunday). Had I had the part, fixing (the pulley) it would have been easy. My friend from Boston came down to pick me up and was able to attend the party after all. A few beers definitely eased the tensions. The next morning Herb Chambers SAAB in Boston was fortunatly open and had the pulley! What Luck. My friend drove me back to my car where I was able to replace the pulley, and belt (already had it). Pulling the Airbox would have been easier to reach in but I didn't as this was my first time attempting this. Those who have not attempted this, its easy. It took me 45 minutes. I didn't order the short belt as posted on the board and may do it later as the idler pulley seems worn. If you turn the wheel all the way to right, you can access the crank by removing 1 screw from an access panel from the mud guard. Without power steering, turning the wheel took some muscle. I asked Herb Chambers to print me the belt routing image to be safe. The image didn't show what appears to be the AC compressor (to the right of crank) but was able to intuitively figure it out. (What NG doesn't have AC?) The pulley got so hot it melted and splattered all over the firewall and various engine parts. (you can see some in the pictures to follow)
Anyway, I'm angry at Portland SAAB, have a $300 alternator sitting in its box that won't be needed, and will be visiting Portland SAAB with the remains of the old pulley.
If you've read my previous posts.. I have bad CAR-ma.. the total bill for the past two years is now $4600! A $1,000 of which was general maintenance (tires, oil, major service, etc)
After this experience, I would probably still buy another SAAB. "When" they work, they're the best car to drive!
posted by 24.198.8...
http://www.eeuroparts.com/images/saab/diagrams/4cylng900belts.gif
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