SAAB 900 Sensonic Gearbox

[Louis Harvey]

Hi

I own a 1997 SAAB 900 SE Turbo Sensonic, 2.0 litre. I have had the car from
new , currently it has 60,000 miles on the clock mainly from town driving in
London. I did have a few problems with the clutch hydraulics which were
fixed under warranty. The clutch plates are original from the factory.

Just recently the "Check ACS" light was flickering which means something
maybe wrong with the Sensonic clutch? When the light was flickering the
clutch would snatch and feel "rough". After stopping the car and leaving it
for 15 minutes it was its old self again as though nothing was wrong. The
problem has not reappeared...yet.

Any ideas please?

Regards

Louis Harvey

[Huibuh]

I have had the same car, 96 model. The pressure hose broke at about 100.000
km (supplied with brake fluid) but did not light the "Check ACS" info.
Nevertheless they had the clutch additionaly dismantled. In some cars the
flywheel becomes hot and has to be replaced. In this case your clutch is
also gone but both problems depend on the type (mine had a Fichtel&Sachs
which is supposed to be better than the initially used one; it looked like
it was brandnew!). Both makes the clutch feel and sound loud and rough. If
it has to be replaced the thrust bearing is also probably worn. This is the
cheapest part and quits first.
This does not explain the light! After I owned the car for about a month
when the ACS light came on and the clutch would not engage. After a restart
the light was still on but I could at least drive to the dealer. They had to
change a computer part (warranty).

Sorry but you have to see your dealer to get a readout from the computer.
This is normally free (my dealer does). It might be nothing and can be
erased.

Since your car has already 60.000 mls done the thrust bearing has with a
good chance to be changed. Quite expensive because of the work. If you think
of
doing it by yourself plan a weekend!

Piet