Saab 900: 1979 Thru 1988 All Models 2.0 Liter (Hayne's Automotive Repair Manual)

Rating:
Summary: A picture is worth a thousand words
Review: I have an '84 900 turbo, and I found that this manual left a lot to be desired. As I've found with a lot of Haynes manuals (this is my fourth), this manual is missing a lot of details. For instance, what is that cylinder in the front left fender well? I finally had to search through junk yards to determine that the flexible hose from the air filter does not actually connect to an exhuast port, but just wraps around the exhaust manifold. I really wish the under the hood/car views had better resolution and were more detailed. Finally, the manual often just says "see photos" instead of refering to specific photos. I get the impression this one was rushed to print.

Rating:
Summary: A picture is worth a thousand words
Review: I have an '84 900 turbo, and I found that this manual left a lot to be desired. As I've found with a lot of Haynes manuals (this is my fourth), this manual is missing a lot of details. For instance, what is that cylinder in the front left fender well? I finally had to search through junk yards to determine that the flexible hose from the air filter does not actually connect to an exhuast port, but just wraps around the exhaust manifold. I really wish the under the hood/car views had better resolution and were more detailed. Finally, the manual often just says "see photos" instead of refering to specific photos. I get the impression this one was rushed to print.

Rating:
Summary: Everything through pulling the engine out
Review: I used this manual on my 81 900 all the way through school and saved thousands of $$ on repairs. Not for the timid, but it's based on a tear-down and rebuild of the car, so it tends to have a lot of info about getting at things in really tight places. I got through water pump replacement, clutch replacement, numerous tune-ups, replacing a wheel bearing, replacing the transmission, and doing brake service. The amount of grease and oil on the book is s testament to how many times I used it keeping the car in good running order.

Rating:
Summary: A little bit of car sense
Review: This book is fine for those with a little bit of experience working on motor vehicles. If you don't have that background there is probably enough information to get you in trouble. I have never owned a SAAB and picked one up with a sick gearbox (transmission) for a song. I found that the information was enough for me to easily handle the engine removal and gearbox replacement. The tip to get around purchasing the SAAB specific clutch removal tool paid for itself on its first use. Overall and excellent book for a reasonably experienced DIYer.If you aren't that experienced rope in a mate who is, shell out for a couple of beers and learn as you go. With a little time you will find it an excellent guide. Cheers