Saab 9-5 Midlife Refresh Project

Thanks for the support!

I've adjusted to driving a 19 year old Civic, which is better now that the AC works (fixed for about $40; new receiver/dryer, a couple cans of R134 and re-shimming the clutch ) .

I think we've come up with a plan, at least to get the lump out of the car. I currently have the front end about 18" off the ground while getting ready to dump everything onto the ground. I'm thinking we can lower it all onto a couple dollies using floor jacks and a hoist, then lift the body up with the hoist and slide the drivetrain out to the side.

Spent a couple hours today getting the engine harness disconnected, bumper and lights and other stuff out of the way. Probably won't have time/energy to do anything tomorrow based on how much I have to do at work. Here's today's stopping point:

For today's bonus round, I found a pair of pliers sitting in the power steering cooler loop:

Still worked after two Cleveland winters lodged in there!

Also, some bizarro on Flickr favorite'd it about 5 minutes after I uploaded the picture. wierd.

When i was into fwd stuff i used to loosen the cradle bolts and pop the steering shaft and lower ball joints then sit the car directly on the legs of the engine hoist. Finish removing cradle bolts, lift car with hoist via core support, stands under body and roll cradle out. Not sure this works with Saab but it works with lots of gm things.

Also, pliers in vinegar to derust. I've got channel locks soaking in the kitchen right now

That's an awesome idea! Simplified and less worry about keeping the whole drivetrain stable while lowering it.