1985-1998 [Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
Oh, my car is SOOOO happy!!!
I have had issues for years with o2 sensor CELs, low idling, crappy acceleration off the line, not wanting to start after a carwash, just wierd random junk. I did have fuel pressure issues at one point, so I was always focused on fuel delivery. But, as my friend used to say, Fuel + Air + Spark = Go, Go, Go
Well, It finally got to the point a couple weeks ago where the voltage at the battery, while running, was dropping off to 12.2V or less at idle, and my pretty new battery was not getting fully charged.
Last Friday, I finally did a trace back to the starter and alternator. The alternator was putting out 14.2V and that was the reading at the starter where the alt cable connected. BUT, just an inch away, on the positive battery lead, 12.2V. Voila, as they say! No obvious corrosion, but maybe an inch of missing insulation.
Replaced the positive lead and it is running like new! It is SOOO happy. Unfortunately, I also ended up with a new starter as the solenoid housing cracked when I was trying to get the retaining nut loose, but hey, still cheaper than an alternator (which was my suspicion) or a new(er) Saab. The nut, washer, and bolt, were pretty much arc-welded together, which says something about what was going on down there and would help explain my post carwash no-starts. The o2 CELs were coming from low voltage to the pre-heater.
Now, of course, my wife wants to get it painted, (currently two grey doors from a '90 on a silver car) and SHE wants to drive it.
Just had to share!
ETS
'89 9kS - Purring...
'92 9kT - Hunting A/C issues, but otherwise, a rocket with great MPG!
posted by 67.52.20...
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