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Just wanted to share my experiences replacing the auto transmission range switch on my 1994 900 S V6. I have seen a lotta posts this winter on people with check gearbox problems so this seems timely.
Symptom: frequent "check gearbox" lights, especially when shifting out of park during cold (<45 degree F) weather. It got worse for me over time so I would get check gearbox when up to 60 degrees F and not always when first moving the gear selector. During the worst recent period, I was getting check gearbox between 2 and 3 or 3 and 4 when up or downshifting. :(
Temporary cure: reseat the grease in the range switch by gently moving the selector from Park to 1 and back again 20-30 times. This worked for a while but eventually was ineffective.
Solution: replaced transmission range switch (aka neutral safety or neutral position switch). Expensive: depends on model of car, but about $330-$365. I got my genuine Saab switch from eeuroparts for $292. No generic/OEM alternatives exist.
I have a very early 1994 900 V6. Parts catalog indicated I needed part # 5173455. Call to dealer indicated I needed same part + an updated bracket and a screw. I can't tell you what those do. The bracket was $39 and the screw was $6.30... I decided to chance it and try it without the other parts. It worked with switch only!
Instructions from J.T. (linked below) are very good. Here a couple additions that I had -- first, I removed the battery tray as well as the battery. Also the power steering hose was still in the way even when the bracket was loose, so I loosened the next part of the hose up by the radiator. This helped a lot. Still had quite a bit of trouble with a stainless steel hose (air conditioner, I think) under the battery tray right by the range switch. That was way too hard to move safely so I just worked around it. Removing the AT dipstick required a LOT of effort but just pull straight up. Following J.T.'s instructions, I did not have another pronged washer (nor did my replacement) so I guess this made it easier. You definitely need an assistant to hold the gear selector in neutral when lining things up. Also, I had a hell of a time with one of the electric connectors. It just takes effort and some gentle work with a screwdriver (careful not to break the plastic!); there are 2 side tabs plus a bigger tab on top holding the two parts together.
Tools: regular metric socket set plus a few extensions needed for 1/4 and 3/8.
Total time: 1 hour 30 mins including lunch outside and excessive fiddling with the electric connectors and the hoses.
Part numbers from Anders / SWEDECAR:
http://www.saabnet.com/tsn/bb/NG900/index.html?bID=54106
Great instructions from J.T.:
http://www.saabnet.com/tsn/bb/NG900/index.html?bID=54322
Hope this helps. A doable job for the moderately advanced DIYer.
Derek / 1994 900 S V6 140,800mi
posted by 66.57.2...
Instructions from J.T. on replacing range switch
, Sun, 29 Feb 2004 21:39:01
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