1994-2002 [Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
Well, the old beast has been in my driveway for about 3 weeks now, and here is what I've found out:
The fuel pump is bad. I hit it with a mallet while cranking and presto, the thing started!
Before discovering this, I decided to change the spark plugs because they really needed it anyway. I installed the Bosch Plat+4's; was that a good choice?
Taking off the intake manifold was a fairly large diy job, but I had plenty of time. Just make sure that you mark or remember everything you take off to aid in reassembly.
I inadvertently created a coolant leak by disconnecting one of the hoses from a cup that attaches to the bottom of the tb. The cup ended up just screwing off, and to fix the leak I just used regular hose clamps.
There was also a hose going from tb to the opposite end of the engine block, near the end of one camshaft, which had *a lot* of crud in it. I decided to replace the hose, but now it is kinked and I really don't want to take everything apart again. Any idea what this hose is for and whether a slight kink will adversely affect engine performance? I believe the original was kinked as well when I took it off.
So here's the biggest thing: I would like to change the fuel pump myself. I've tried dropping the tank, but the straps and nuts are completely corroded together. Would it be worth just changing the tank straps to get the tank down?
My mechanic said that he usually just goes through the opening under the rear seat to change it, but all I see is a mess of wires. The fuel pump seems to be in the middle, but the hole through the underbody is on the passenger side. Does anyone know how to get to the fuel pump without having to drop the tank?
I found a Walbro fuel pump assembly for 84 dollars (at least the web site said it was the full assembly). What should I look out for if I do figure out how to get to the pump? Is there any other seals or anything that I need for doing this repair?
My mechanic said he could replace for a Saab pump assembly for around 800 including the filter, but I cannot come up with that kind of cash. He also said that he can get an aftermarket pump unit (not assembly) and replace for around 400. If I can get an aftermarket assembly for 84 bucks and replace it myself, that seems the much more cost-effective route, providing that I can figure out how to get in there.
One more thing: I've started the car twice with the old rubber mallet trick, but it will not start at all now. Does this mean anything, or is that what usually happens with a fuel pump?
I guess that is all for now.
Thanks in advance for any advice or helpful suggestions.
Chris in NY
Here is the link for the fuel pump site:
posted by 4.157.29...
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