Saab 900 head gasket repair

SwedishWrench,

     It's great to see your article on the saab inboard diagnostic system. It is a valuable tool that surprisingly few Saab owners are aware of. Your instructions however were a little misleading. While it may be the #3 pin on 2.2 systems, it is the #2 pin when dealing with the 10 pin connector under the back seat (2.4 system) I do not know what the effect of grounding #3 pin would be, but it seems possible that one might run the risk of making what can often be a frustrating problem even worse. I have a 1989 900 and use the 'official service manual' (single volume, years 85 -93) put out by Bentley Publishers. It is a great book that has helped me learn a lot. I would however appreciate any tips on finding additional information - on line or in print, and/or a directory of qualified/talented Saab mechanics in my area. I would especially interested in finding a page along the lines of back yard jacks do it yourself Saab diagnostics and repairs. Perhaps I am dreaming. I recently changed the headgasket on my car. While the repair remedied the pre-existing problem, it has left me with a whole new set of bugs. The fault codes I am getting 12223, 12112, 12111. The most in your face problem, however, is an extremely erratic idle. I have checked all vacuum hoses and and almost all the major components. I haven't bothered with oxygen sensor because the problem is most serious when the engine is cold - it is my understanding that the oxygen sensor doesn't begin to work until operating temp is reached. I am going to check my air mass meter today. After this I am afraid I might have to give up because I lack the equipment to properly test fuel pressure ( this where my request for help in finding a good mechanic comes in). I feel like a beaten dog. Would love to hear back from you. Thanks from Maine.

Hi,
      I will have to go over that flash code article and try to make it more clear. This is why I suggest adding a fuse to the jumper to avoid such problems. As far as additional information on line or in print I really don't know of much, and you have the best after market manual already. Here are a few things to check that I have seen go bad during a headgasket job. For your car I would double check the camshaft timing and all the air plumbing to your turbo and intake manifold. Check the wiring to the coolant temp sensor between cylinder 2 and 3 on the intake manifold. Make sure it is plugged in all the way or has not been swapped with the knock sensor wiring.
Good luck,

Jason

(This article is meant to educate a consumer,or as a guideline for professionals. You can cause serious damage to your vehicle and/or cause yourself injury. Only those qualified should attempt repairs. I do my best to assure that the above info is correct but take no responsibility for any damages incurred.)

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