1979-1993 & 94 Conv [Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
OY! is right! 35 miles from Auburn - is that 35 east or west? If you are on the Sacramento side, would suggest you get two estimates from the shops Justin listed, but only if they can tackle the job now. I also agree with Justin regarding questionable used transmissions. Have yours rebuilt, or have them order a gauranteed rebuilt. If you are further upmountain, there are few options outside working a deal with Mr Blackforest-that-fixes-expensive-Teutonic-motorcars. WHY?
1)You state that the car is in good shape otherwise. 2)This car, no car, has much market value sitting with a dead transmission - you cannot sell it or trade it as-is. 3) Kelley Blue Book lists your 900S presently at $4800 retail. 4) You do not explain why head gasket needs replacing - who diagnosed that, and on what basis? My suggestion is that, if engine is running smoothly, head gasket job be postponed til later, concentrate on transmission repair now, thus less cost to you. 5) If you are totally candid with Mr Blackforest, perhaps he will allow you to make several installment payments - many good shops will "work with" someone in a tough spot. You are definitely in a Tough Spot.
Other Options: Buy another car outright? Even if you can afford this, what do you now do with a non-running but very good '93 Saab? It isn't very viable as a trade-in right now. Unless you are considering a cheap beater just for transportation, it makes more sense to me and will cost less to repair your current car than to purchase a late model "good" car.
Cause: My theory - climbing a long Sierra grade in summer is TOUGH on any automatic gearbox. If you have been neglecting fluid service on this car, it is possible the gearbox did overheat via low fluid and then fail, the resultant heat and drag then caused the engine overheat to occur. It is also possible that your fluid level was fine, but that a leak occurred thru a cooler hose or gasket, leading to the failure. Possibly not your fault.
Moral of the story: Emily, it is not necessary to "change" automatic trans fluid very often. It has much longer endurance than motor oil, since it does not get contaminated by water and combustion products as motor oils do. However, its fluid level must be checked regularly, and Saab has installed a handy little dipstick just for that purpose. When your nice '93 Saab has been repaired, make a habit of checking and topping up all fluid levels on a weekly or at least monthly basis. This car should give you another 50,000 miles. Also, I gare-on-tee that every reader on this bulletin board has been in your shoes at least once. We DO empathize with you. Good Luck!
PS: did you try adding AT fluid? What happened?
Dave of Everett, WA
1989 900 Turbo SPG
posted by 65.239.1...
, Mon, 14 Jul 2003 07:00:42
, Mon, 14 Jul 2003 00:32:07
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