Page 481
Control Arms
632-5
Fig. 11. Lower ball joint mounting bolts (1) and shock absorber
mounting nut (2). Anti-roll bar mount shown at A.
3. Remove the six control arm bracket-to-body mounting
nuts. See Fig. 12. Remove the control arm from the car.
Fig. 12. Lower control arm mounting nuts (arrows).
Installation is the reverse of removal. If the bearing
brackets were removed from the control arms, be sure to
reinstall them as shown above in Fig. 5. Replace all selflocking nuts and torque all fasteners to the values given in
Fig. 2. Check and adjust wheel alignment if necessary. See
601 Wheel Alignment.
CONTROL ARMS AND CONTROL ARM BUSHINGS
Page 482
Steering Column
641-1
641 Steering Column
General
To remove steering wheel
641-1
641-1
To remove steering column assembly
641-2
GENERAL
The steering column assembly consists of three sections,
connected by universal joints. See Fig. 1. The top perforated
cage-like section is deformable and the steering wheel shaft
is telescopic. The intermediate shaft is made of a flexible
sheet steel, which will allow the steering column to collapse
when subjected to high loads.
Steering
wheel
Collapsible
steering column
On 1990 and later models, an SRS airbag system is used,
with the airbag itself located in the steering wheel pad.
WARNING
• The SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) uses an explosive device to inflate the airbag. Do not attempt to service the
wiring in the steering wheel, steering column assembly, or airbag unit. The airbag may ignite causing serious injury. See an
authorized Saab dealer for any repairs necessary to the SRS
wiring or components, including removal of the steering wheel
and steering column.
_ _ _ Steering
wheel shaft
• Do not reuse self-locking nuts. These parts are designed to
be used only once and must be replaced whenever loosened
or removed.
CAUTION
• When spinning the steering wheel via the front road wheels
(front wheels off the ground), move the wheels slowly from
lock to lock to avoid damaging the collapsible steering column.
• Do not push or pull on the steering wheel (for example when
trying to roll the car). Doing so can strain the steering column,
causing it to collapse.
Intermediate
shaft
Universal
joint
67823
Fig. 1. Exploded view of steering column assembly.
To remove steering wheel
The procedure below does not cover removing the steering
wheel on SRS (airbag) equipped cars. Cars with SRS can be
identified by the three letter markings on the steering wheel
pad.
WARNING
Removing the steering wheel on cars equipped with SRS airbag requires that the airbag unit be disarmed, removed, and
stored in a safe place. Due to the inherent danger involved in
this operation, it should be left to an authorized Saab dealer.
1. Position the steering wheel so that the road wheels are
straight ahead.
2. On three-spoke steering wheels, carefully pry off the
steering wheel pad and disconnect the electrical connectors for the horn. See Fig. 2.
3. On four-spoke steering wheels, pry out the badge in the
center of the wheel.
4. Place matching marks on the steering wheel and the
steering wheel shaft. Remove the center steering
wheel nut and washer. See Fig. 3.
GENERAL
Page 483
641-2
Steering Column
Fig. 2. steering wheel pad being removed on cars with threespoke wheels.
Fig. 4.
Puller (Saab tool no, 8996 258) being used to remove
steering wheel. The two side bo~s on the puller thread
into the steering wheel itself and the center bolt is threaded down onto the steering wheel shaft.
To remove steering column assembly
The procedure below does not cover removing the steering
column assembly on SRS (airbag) equipped cars. Cars with
SRS can be identified by the three letter markings on the
steering wheel pad.
WARNING
Removing the steering column assembly on cars equipped
with SRS airbag requires that the airbag unit be disarmed, removed, and stored in a safe place. Due to the inherent danger
involved in this operation, it should be left to an authorized
Saab dealer.
Fig. 3. steering wheel mounting nut being removed,
5. Pull the steering wheel straight off the steering wheel
shaft. If the wheel does not pull off easily, use a suitable
puller to assist in removal. See Fig. 4.
CAUTION
Do not hammer on the steering wheel or steering wheel shaft
in an attempt to loosen the steering wheel. This may damage
the collapsible steering column.
Installation is the reverse of removal. Always replace the
self-locking nut.
Tightening torque
• steering wheel to steering column
(self-locking nut)
25-28 Nm (18 to 21 ft-Ib)
GENERAL
1. Working from the engine compartment, remove the
clamping bolt that holds the steering column universal
joint to the steering rack. See Fig. 5. Push the steering
column protective boot off the firewall bulkhead and
into the passenger compartment.
2. Remove the steering wheel as described above.
3. Remove the center storage console and the lower instrument padding as described in 853 Dashboard and
Consoles.
4. Remove the steering column lower trim piece.
5. Remove the directional indicator and wiper/washer
stalk switches from the steering column. Label the
electrical connectors before unplugging them.
6. Unplug the connectors for the horn and cruise control
(where applicable). Cut any cable ties holding the wiring harness to the steering column.
Page 484
Steering Column
Fig. 5. Steering column universal joint clamping bolt being removed.
7. If applicable, remove the anti-chafi ng pad from the right
side of the steering column.
641-3
Fig. 7. Steering column assembly being removed from car.
Installation is the reverse of removal. Make sure that the
steering column universal joint is fully seated on the steering
r'ack pinion shaft so that the clamping bolt properly engages
the groove in the shaft. See Fig. 8.
NOTE
If an anti-chafing material is used, note its position before removing it.
8. Remove the four steering column-to-console bolts and
spacers. See Fig. 6.
Fig. 8. Steering column-to-steering rack pinion shaft clamping
bolt being installed. Bolt must engage groove in shaft.
Apply Loctite to the four steering column-to-body mounting
bolts during installation. Replace all self-locking nuts. Check
the universal joints for free movement. Universal joints that
are seized or do not swivel freely should be replaced. Tighten
all bolts to their recommended torques.
Fig. 6. Steering column mounting bolts (arrows).
9. Lower the column slightly and pull the entire assembly
out of the car. See Fig. 7.
WARNING
Use care when handling the removed steering column assembly. Do not alter the position of the telescopic steering wheel
shaft or the collapsible function of the column assembly may
be impaired.
Tightening torques
• steering column to steering rack (clamping bolt, se~locking nut)
20 to 27 Nm (15 to 20 ft-Ib)
• steering column to body (bolts, install
with Loctite)
20 to 27 Nm (15 to 20 ft-Ib)
• steering wheel to steering column
(se~-Iocking nut)
25-28 Nm (18 to 21 ft-Ib)
GENERAL
Page 485
Tie Rod Ends
643-1
643 Tie Rod Ends
General
643-1
To replace tie rod end. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 643-1
GENERAL
CAUTION
The tie rod ends connect the steering rack tie rods to the
steering swivel member. They thread onto the end of the tie
rod and are securely fastened to the swivel member with a
self-locking nut. No maintenance or lubrication is needed for
the life of the joint. See Fig. 1.
A new style tie rod end was introduced during the 1989 model
year on the 900 models. This new tie rod end can be identified
by a slot cut in the end of the threaded stud. See Fig. 2. The
two tie rod ends must never be interchanged between the early cars and later cars, as steering geometry will be affected.
CAUTION
Do not reuse self-locking nuts. These parts are designed to be
used only once and must be replaced if loosened or removed.
87829
Fig. 2. New style tie rod end used on early 1989 and later models,
This new tie rod end can be identified by slot cut into threaded end of stud.
To remove tie rod end
87806·S6l255
Power-assisted steering
rack
2. TIe rod
3. TIe rod end
Fig. 1. Steering system.
Tie rod ends should be checked for wear at regular
intervals. The rubber boots around the joints should also be
inspected for tears, cracks or general deterioration. Replace
the tie rod end if any faults are found.
Tie rod ends are best checked for wear with the front
wheels off the ground. Grasp both sides of the tire and gently
rock the wheel back and forth. If any noticeable play is
present, the tie rod end is probably worn and should be
replaced.
Removing the tie rod end will alter the alignment (toe-in) of
the front wheels. It is highly recommended that the front
wheels be aligned after replacing a tie rod end.
1. Loosen the wheel lug nuts or bolts, then raise the front
of the car and support it securely on jack stands designed for the purpose. Remove the wheel.
WARNING
Always check that the car is stable on the jack stands before
starting any work.
2. Loosen the locknut that secures the tie rod end to the
tie rod. Remove the self-locking nut securing the tie rod
end to the steering swivel member. See Fig. 3.
3. Using a press tool, remove the jOint from the steering
swivel member. See Fig. 4.
GENERAL
Page 486
643-2
Tie Rod Ends
NOTE
If the position of the tie rod end on the tie rod is carefully
marked, the new tie rod end can be positioned where the old
tie rod was prior to removal so the car can be safely driven.
5. Install the new tie rod end to the tie rod, threading it on
the same number of turns counted above in step 4. Insert the tie rod end into the steering member and install
and tighten a new self-locking nut.
Tightening torque
• tie rod end to steering member
(self-locking nut)
50 to 60 Nm (37 to 44 ft-Ib)
Fig. 3. Tie rod end locknut being loosened. Tie rod end self-locking nut shown at arrow.
WARNING
The length of the tie rod from the locknut to the stepped part
of the rod must never exceed 125 mm (4.92 in). See Fig. 2.
Also, the difference in length between the two tie rods must
not exceed 2 mm (0.08 in.). For example, if the right rod measured 124 mm, the left rod must measure between 122 mm
and 125 mm. See Fig. 5.
87897-S6I166
87896-S6420
Fig. 4. Tie rod end being removed from steering swivel member
using press. Saab tool no. 8995 409 shown.
WARNING
A tie rod end removal fork should not be used to remove the
tie rod end. Do not hammer on the tie rod end in an attempt to
remove it from the steering member. Doing this may damage
the steering rack, the collapsible steering column, or the steering swivel member.
4. Mark the position of the tie rod end to the tie rod.
Thread the tie rod end off the tie rod, counting the number of turns it takes to get it off.
GENERAL
Rg. 5. Maximum permissible length (C) of tie rod must not exceed
125 mm (4.92 in.).
6. Adjust the toe-in using special wheel alignment equipment. Tighten the tie rod lock nut.
Tightening torque
• steering tie rod to tie
rod end (locking nut).... 60 to 80 Nm (44 to 59 ft-Ib)
Page 487
Power Steering
644-1
644 Power Steering
Power Steering System
To remove power steering rack
644-1
644-1
To install power steering rack
To remove power steering pump and lines
644-3
644-4
To remove power steering rack
POWER STEERING SYSTEM
The power-assisted steering rack is mounted at the lower
rear of the engine compartment. A belt driven hydraulic pump
supplies fluid under pressure to the control valve in the
steering rack to help reduce steering effort. See Fig. 1.
WARNING
Removing or replacing the steering rack will affect front wheel
alignment. Always have the front end aligned after doing any
work to the steering rack or related steering components. See
601 Wheel Alignment for more information on aligning the
wheels.
1. Loosen the wheel lug bolts, then raise the front of the
car and support it securely on jack stands designed for
the purpose. Remove the wheels.
WARNING
Always check that the car is stable on the jack stands before
starting any work.
2. Drain the power steering fluid by removing the return
hose from the fluid reservoir. See Fig. 2. Place the disconnected hose in a quart-sized container. Plug the
open hose fitting at the reservoir.
87771-S6l255
1. Power steering fluid reservoir
2. Power steering pump
3. Control valve (part of steering rack)
4. Steering rack
NOTE
If necessary, connect an extension hose to the retum hose.
Fig. 1. Power steering system.
;
:.;;::
':
......,
There is no routine maintenance for the power steering
system other than checking the fluid level, see 1
LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE. Checking the steering
tie rod ends is described in 643 Tie Rod Ends.
CAUTION
• Do not reuse self-locking nuts. These parts are designed to
be used only once and must always be replaced whenever
loosened or removed.
• Do not hold the steering wheel at full lock for extended periods with the engine running. This may overheat the pump and
damage it.
I
~
Fig. 2. Power steering pump return hose (arrow) at fluid reservoir.
POWER STEERING SYSTEM
.
~:~r~
::;.;.:.:.:.:::
Page 488
644-2
Power Steering
3. Start the engine and allow the fluid to pump out of the
system and into the container. Rotate the steering
wheel slowly from lock to lock. Shut off the engine as
soon as the system is empty. Reconnect the return
hose to the reservoir.
6. Unscrew the tie rods from the tie rod ends. Hoid the inner rubber bellows stationary while unscrewing the
rods. See Fig. 5.
4. Working at the wheels, loosen the tie rod end locknut at
both tie rods. See Fig. 3.
Fig. 5. Tie rod being unscrewed from tie rod end.
Fig. 3. Tie rod end locknut being loosened.
7. Thoroughly clean the area around the two hydraulic
pipe fittings on the steering rack. See Fig. 6. Disconnect the pipes from the rack and plug the pipe openings. Remove the clamps holding the pipes to the rack.
5. Using a vernier caliper, measure and record the tie rod
length from the tie rod end to the stepped part tie rod.
See Fig. 4.
NOTE
It may be necessary to push the bellows back slightly to access the stepped part of the tie rod.
Fig. 6. Hydraulic pipe fittings on steering rack (arrows).
8. Working from the rear of the engine compartment, remove the clamping bolt holding the steering column
universal joint to the steering rack. See Fig. 7.
9. Remove the bolts holding the steering rack to the body.
See Fig. 8.
Fig. 4. Tie rod length being measured using vernier caliper. Car
shown is Saab 9000.
10. Separate the steering rack from the steering column
universal joint.
11. Rotate the steering rack until its pinion shaft is pointing
downward. See Fig. 9.
POWER STEERING SYSTEM
Page 489
Power Steering
644-3
Fig. 9. Steering rack pinion shaft positioned correctly for removal of rack,
Fig. 7. Steering column clamping bolt being
removed.
Fig. 10. Left-hand (driver's) side tie rod shown lowered from car
body
To install power steering rack
Fig. 8. Steering rack mounting bolts (arrows),
12. Slide the steering rack toward the passenger side of
the car.
13. Turn the steering rack pinion shaft until the right-hand
(passenger's) side tie rod is fully extended. Lift the lefthand (driver's) side tie rod over the subframe. See Fig.
10.
Inspect the rubber bellows and the rubber mounting
bushings. Replace any worn or damaged parts.
1. Turn the pinion shaft until the driver's side tie rod is fully
extended. Place the rack up and into the body with the
pinion shaft pointing down. See Fig. 11.
2. Turn the pinion shaft until the passenger's side tie rod
is fully extended. Lift the left-hand (driver's) side tie rod
up and over the subframe member. Center the steering
rack.
CAUTION
Tum the shaft using pliers. Place a rag over the pinion shaft to
protect the splines.
NOTE
When the steering rack is centered, the slot in the pinion shaft
for the clamping bolt should be toward the rear of the car
(shaft pointing downward),
14. Slide the entire rack toward the driver's side of the car
and remove the rack assembly.
POWER STEERING SYSTEM
Page 490
644-4
Power Steering
7. Thread the tie rods into the tie rod ends. Adjust the tie
rod to the dimensions recorded above in Fig. 4. Tighten
the locknuts.
Tightening torque
• tie rod end to tie rod ... 60 to 80 Nm (44 to 59 ft-Ib)
8. Fill the reservoir with power steering fluid. With the engine off, slowly turn the steering wheel three or four
times from lock to lock.
Fig. 11. Steering rack being installed into body.
3. Rotate the entire rack up and connect the pinion shaft
to the steering column universal joint. Loosely install
the clamping bolt and new a self-locking nut.
CAUTION
Make sure the pinion shaft fully engages the universal joint.
The clamping bolt must go through the slot in the pinion shaft.
4. Install and tighten the steering rack mounting bolts and
the steering column clamping bolt.
CAUTION
Do not use ATF in the power steering system. Use only GM
(General Motors) Specification Power Steering Fluid.
Power steering fluid
• GM power steering fluid (GM 9985010),
75 cl (0.8 qt)
Texaco TL4634 or equivalent
9. Install the wheels, lower the car and start the engine.
Turn the wheels from lock to lock two more times.
Tightening torques
• wheel lug bolts
• wheel lug nuts
Tightening torques
• power steering
60 to 80 Nm (44 to 59 ft-Ib)
rack to body
• universal joint to pinion shaft (clamping bolt and selflocking nut)
25 to 34 Nm (18 to 25 ft-Ib)
105 to 125 Nm (78 to 92 ft-Ib)
90 to 110 Nm (66 to 81 ft-Ib)
10. Check the front wheel alignment and adjust if necessary.
To remove power steering pump and lines
5. Install and tighten the hydraulic pipes to the control
valve. Replace the O-rings at the pipe connections
where necessary.
Tightening torque
• power steering
hose fittings
20 to 34 Nm (15 to 25 ft-Ib)
6. Install new clamps to hold the pipes to the steering rack
housing.
CAUTION
Use care not to pinch or damage the pressure-equalizing tube
between the rubber bellows.
POWER STEERING SYSTEM
1. Drain the power steering fluid by removing the return
hose from the fluid reservoir. See Fig. 2 above. Place
the disconnected hose in a quart-sized container. If
necessary, connect an extension hose to the return
hose. Plug the open hose fitting at the reservoir.
2. Start the engine and allow the fluid to pump out of the
system and into the container. Rotate the steering
wheel slowly from lock to lock. Shut off the engine as
soon as the system is empty. Reconnect the return
hose to the reservoir.
3. Working in the engine compartment, cut the cable ties
holding the main engine harness to the rear of the cylinder head. Rest the harness on top of the valve cover.