1994-2002 [Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
So if you can handle those old machines some Saab stuff will be right up your alley. Not as simple, but not necessarily all that complicated, either. You just need to think differently. I've had MGs, so I know where you're coming from!
Let's start with the wastegate. With a cold engine, you need to find the rod connecting the turbocharger and a cylindrical fitting--the wastegate actuator. Make sure the wastegate rod moves freely. It is under spring tension so it will require some effort but should move smoothly. Make sure it is connected at both ends. On my '99 the rod is visible from above, but your car may be different as stuff changed for 2000 and later cars. If the wastegate rod won't move the actuator may be the culprit and is keeping the wastegate slightly open. Not a common problem, though.
Next check the BPC solenoid --it has 3 hoses coming out of one side and an electrical connector on the other. It is probably near the right front side of the radiator. Follow each hose and check for splits and cracks.
If they are OK, follow the hose from the BPC to the wastegate and disconnect the it at the BPC end. Plug it if you can. Now go for a VERY careful drive and see what happens. You should gets LOTS of boost--as in waaay into the red zone. If that happens, you know the BPC is bad and needs to be replaced. Reconnect the wastegate hose while you're waiting for the new part. They are about $50 or $60 from a site sponsor and take 5 minutes to replace, although the connector may have a rubber cover you'll have to cut apart to remove (lame Swedish idea).
So you know, what you are doing in this test is disabling the ability of the ECU (the engine computer) to restrict boost via the wastegate actuator. So you get uncontrolled boost. That's why you have to be very careful on the test drive. When the BPC is working right, it moderates the amount of boost you get at different throttle settings by opening the wastegate on the turbocharger. With the hose disconnected the wastegate stays closed and you get bags and bags of power.
Hope this helps.
A disclaimer... The above test for the BPC works on my cars that use the T5 engine management system. It may be different for the T7 cars like yours. Someone here will no doubt jump in if I'm wrong.
No Site Registration is Required to Post - Site Membership is optional (Member Features List), but helps to keep the site online
for all Saabers. If the site helps you, please consider helping the site by becoming a member.
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |