Date: Tue, 10 Dec 2002 21:38:44 GMT From: "TL Mitchell" <tlmitchell99nopsamhlink.net> Subject: Re: '97 900 SE Turbo Convertible - any issues?
"Bob" <uctraingNOSPAMersnopsamanet.com> wrote in message news:hbbcvusln4dcf5in5d5kod6dj2sptf6iounopsamcom... > On Tue, 10 Dec 2002 16:28:33 GMT, "TL Mitchell" > <tlmitchell99nopsamhlink.net> wrote: > > > > > >I was recently the high bidder on a '97 900 SE Turbo Convertible on eBay.... > >if the car pans out it looks like a steal. > > That is a steal ! Aside from the usual "look over"... Heh, heh........ yup. Cantya tell I'm feeling terribly guilty about it ;-) > Check for any oil leaks around the tranny/rear of > the engine and axles. Check for any headgasket leakage at the right > front corner (as you face the engine from the front of the car). Look > for proper operation of the climate control system, A/C working. Check > to make sure the power seats are working. Test the top up and down > a couple of times. Let me repeat: Test the top up and down a couple > of times. The '97 does not have any known top issues but they are > a little pricy to fix, so you'd want to know. Test at speed for any > vibration and vibration under strong acceleration on the highway. > Check the clutch. The clutch is manual so it will be stiffer than > most cars but it should still be smooth. Repairs could be as little > as a new cable (under $100) or a clutch ($1000+). Listen for any > growling noises (sometimes the A/C or Alternator). > > At the price you're paying, none of these should matter all that > much by themselves as you will still be under retail after fixing > any of them... but you wouldn't want to fix all of them. Pretty much the way I had it figured. Talked to a wrench today and he is aware of no chronic issues with this year/model. They're checking the Saab database for any recalls that have been or need to be done on this particular car. He also mentioned something contrary to what some report about off-lease vehicles..... I've heard many cars get above average maintenance due to service contracts with the lease. That'd make 'em kinda attractive, if true. This tech reports otherwise, that the most often skimped maintenance item is neglected oil changes. Advised me to pull the breather near the rear of the valve cover and inspect for sludge. If present he advised me to pull the valve cover for a look-see and if it's all sludged up to just walk away........ period. I s'pose that's an issue he's particular keen on as he's recently pulled two engines apart that were sludged up. Pricey and labor-intensive! Thanks for the pointers Bob. The dealer sensed I'm a little anal-retentive when it comes to automobiles and has offered the use of his lift and tools, if necessary. I think their confidence in the vehicle is a good sign. TL <---- somebody stop that car thief !
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