1994-2002 [Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
I'm basing this that you have the 185hp turbo engine, not the 205hp.
I first started with the Saab stainless exhaust and it has a great sound, although it can a tad much as the packing breaks in. Not objectionable, but noticable. This seems to help the turbo spool a little better and they claim 10hp gain. I did not use the big stainless tip because it looks tacky.
My next mod was the MBC (manual boost control), there are lots of posts and valuable information on this on the NG900 board since it uses the T5 engine mgmt. I belive the first 9-3s came with the T5 and then changed to T7, but you would have to check. I say this because the MBC will not work on the T7. The MBC is cheap at $35 and eliminates the reduced boost in 1st and 2nd gear, not to mentioned instant spooling of the turbo. It make a big difference. Since the Saab has fuel cut at 14lbs of boost, the engine has a pretty robust safe guard and adjustment of the MBC takes a several runs (and fuel cut) until dialed in. I almost went the ECU route, but at $500 - $1000, I decided to put the money toward a new boat.
Now I was up to the point of looking to get more air into the turbo with less restriction. I looked at the cone filters, but did not go this route because they are prone to drawing in underhood air that is quite hot. The stock box is great, but has a little inlet. This can be enlarged to 3" with PVC pipe and is very cheap to do. You can search for this mod on the NG900 board and find lots of info. As you already know I put the Amsoil filter in as well.
There is the TBTC mod and removal of the silencer in the intercooler plumbing, which Saab omitted on later models anyway. I also replaced the "hooter valve" with a better Bosch unit (I think it's the Viggen PN). I couldn't see paying $100+ for the fancy aluminum one.
That pretty much rounds out the engine enhancements and I thn focused on suspension and brakes. For the brakes I installed a good set of EBC pads for better stopping. Suspension was bettered with the SAS rear bar (very noticable enhancement) and new gas shocks. Tires I went to a 215-50-16 to retain the stock rims.
Other than that I replaced the clutch, pressure plate, T/O bearing and cable with OEM (not a fun project - 8hrs).
The car is much more pleasureable to drive with instant spool up and pulls much harder in all gears. Highway off ramps are also a blast. It's no Viggen beater, but is more fun to drive than the base 185hp and 205hp versions. I would estimate that power has gone from 185hp, to the 215hp range.
Email me if you have specific questions. I would be glad to walk you through some of the installs or answer questions.
Happy Saabing.
David M
posted by 207.172.9...
, Thu, 21 Nov 2002 11:19:41
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