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Today was planned to replace the tripod bearing in the drivers side axle. (2001 9-3 SE 5 spd w/ 82K miles). So...jacked up the car, removed the wheel, and again wanted to take another quick look. Since reading up on this during the week, I learned a bit more. Further inspection looks like the tripod bearing is fine. But, there is a bunch of play (radially) where the companion flange goes into the gearbox.
Some posts from 2007 where Swedecar replied says this is not replacable w/o removing the trans. But, there was hope of a tool??? Any progress in 3 years? I couldn't find any newer posts indicating a better repair was found?
Any estimate on what an indy mechanic might charge to repair?? (remove trans, disassemble, replace bushing, etc.) It's hard to justify spending a bunch on a car I paid $6000 for two years ago. I really like the car, it looks great, drives nice (aside from the companion flange "clunking") but my gut is saying drive it another two years and then part it out if things get worse? I just don't know...there are no leaks from the seal on this axle.
I like Saabs, and my wife has a '99 9-3 base we bought used, and have had forever. I guess I just need to consider the effort vs. reward (or $$$ vs. reward) of a fix like this; since I just don't have the time this summer for a big repair like this. I "wish" the clutch was going, as there'd be reason to dig in there, but that was replaced at a Saab dealer by the previous owner 2 years/10K miles ago (I don't drive much).
The plan was to replace some worn suspension parts over the summer and drive it another 5 or so years...but I'm just not sure now. Any thoughts?
posted by 67.174.15...
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