Saggy bottomed SAABs

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Sat 6 Apr 2002 18:26
Saggy bottomed SAABs - J Hill
Can you advise please?
I have a 1987 (E) SAAB 900i, purchased new, collected by self from
Gothenburg.
This car has always appeared to ride a little 'low' over the rear axle - typically the mudguards will scrape on a corner - always have done, even unladen. We have checked, frequently, with SAAB as to the integrity of the rear suspension / 'sag' of the car, and have been assured there were no problems. In an attempt to lift the back end, we had rear springs and shocks replaced (by Adrian Smith SAAB)in 1998 - sadly to little effect.
Until recently this has presented no handling problems. However, over the last year, the sag has become more significant on the near side, and the car has presented with handling problems.
It has consistently passed MOTs and garage inspections - last MOT - Nov 2001. On enquiry, following inspection by Adrian Smith SAAB, we were advised to replace rear springs. This, along with new shocks, has been done; in addition, all four front ball joints and tie rod ends have been replaced.
There would seem to be little significant rusting/ corrosion to the
mounting points of the rear axle. The car continues to sag and drift - especially if it's windy.
What next? Please don't say scrap.....it's a dream of a car.
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Sat 6 Apr 2002 21:40
Re: Saggy bottomed SAABs - Tony
My brother is on his 2nd saab and usually bys 1 year old and keeps for ten , he is a mechanic , i suggest after 14+ years it is time to trade to another saab?
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Sun 7 Apr 2002 16:58
Re: Saggy bottomed SAABs - J Bonington Jagworth
Only 14 years old? It's barely run-in...
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Sun 7 Apr 2002 23:55
Re: Saggy bottomed SAABs - J Hill
Hence my desire to keep her on the road - she's superb otherwise
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Sat 6 Apr 2002 21:56
Re: Saggy bottomed SAABs - D T
My 1990 16v has the same tendency although the handling is unaffected

For further advice try the Bulletin Boards at

saab-900.co.uk
saabnet.com
townsendimports.com - keep a log of failures on all saabs.
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Sat 6 Apr 2002 22:53
Re: Saggy bottomed SAABs - Mike H
Try the technical help or forums on the Saab Owners Club site - saabclub.co.uk. If it drifts, then it's shocks not springs. There are various places you can uprated springs e.g. Abbott Racing, Trent Saab, might be worth asking their advice. Could also try BPV at Slough (Saab specialists) 01753 692386.
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Sun 7 Apr 2002 17:20
Re: Saggy bottomed SAABs - Mark (Brazil)
How does it compare in height/look if you park it next to another of the same model ?
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Sun 7 Apr 2002 23:56
Re: Saggy bottomed SAABs - J Hill
Have seen one or two others equally saggy - this problem is, to some extent academic. What is unsettling is the reduction in handling quality and the increased sag to one side.
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