IronJoe's 87 SPG Restoration Project (NO JOKE)

[IronJoe]

My latest purchase, an original 1987 900 SPG. Time to whip out the format:

THE GOAL: To save an SPG. There are very few SPGs left around (especially 87's, the first post-facelift Special Performance Group 900) and I couldn't resist the chance to bring this one back. It's got its issues, granted, but when I'm done I want a clean, original, 100% stock 87 SPG. No whaletail, no vent covers, no fat wheel arch trim, just everything as it came from the factory. It's getting tough to find unmolested SPGs anymore, especially since it's guys like me doing the molesting.

THE CAR: 1987 SPG with 165k miles, purchased by me in June 2007 for $750. GOOD: AMAZING original paint, straight body, ZERO RUST ANYWHERE, great leather interior, original tool kit/spare tire/jack/tire bag/etc, amazingly clean engine bay, strong running stock motor. BAD: Minor frontend bump requiring new pass headlight, grille, hood, and bumper. Headliner is shot. Dash is cracked. Quarter-sized dent on rear pass side. Only 3 SPG wheels. Fading paint on sunroof. Needs maintenance.

ENGINE
WORK DONE:
-No modifications, simply bringing performance to factory-spec
-Full factory-spec tuneup - plugs, wires, cap, rotor,
-Fluid flush - power steering, oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid
-New radiator support
-Current boost 3/4 yellow.
NEEDS:
-Misc vacuum leaks need sorting
-Clutch pedal bushing install

SUSPENSION
WORK DONE:
-new tires
-Refreshed SPG wheels
NEEDS:
-Wheel bearings?
-bleed brakes

INTERIOR
WORK DONE:
-recovered headliner
-recovered sunroof panel
-recovered c-pilliars & door panels
-recovered interior panels
-refinished leather steering wheel
-refinished leather shift boot
NEEDS:
-new parcel shelf
-install new dash
-install leather seat bottom
-re-dye leather
-install DIN cupholder

EXTERIOR
WORK DONE:
-REMOVED USA STICKER!!!
-New Hood
-New Front Bumper
-repainted front & rear bumper (SEM flexible bumper paint)
-refinished chrome bumper trim
-Refitted SPG panels
-New headlights
-New Grille
-Full set of SPG wheels
-New paint on hood & sunroof (PPG base/clear, edwardian grey)
NEEDS:
-New rear bumper
-Cut & buff new clearcoat
-Polish & wax original paint
-New hood emblem

FIRST PICS:
-Here are some when I brought it home, and after its first car wash in my posession.
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/P6130063.sized.jpg

http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/P6130062.sized.jpg

http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/P6130064.sized.jpg

BEST COUNTRY IN WORLD USA:
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/P6130072.sized.jpg

http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/P6130065.sized.jpg


http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/P6130067.sized.jpg


Full gallery is here (http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/album85)

[philb]

Looks great, but I wonder how long you'll be able to keep it free of vent-covers, whale-tail, 16" rims, etc :)
Also wonder how long stock boost will be there for :)

[Albert Trout]

Why you are putting stupid restoration project in modding forum? Am Saab fanatic with most powerful 900 in Royal UK. nO joke.

[philjohnhb]

'some of them are just plain stock rebuilding jobs, has no place being posted here in the performance project section.'

So - a grey one eh? what a shock. I echo PHILB - How Long?

I bet your neighbours looked over and thought 'Oh fer f*#s sake - not again'.

[IronJoe]

I bet your neighbours looked over and thought 'Oh fer f*#s sake - not again'.

Yep, that's exactly what they said! :lol: :lol: :lol:


It's not a matter of how long. Modifying is easy... A restoration seems like a real challenge to me. I'm excited to drive a sporty saab hatchback that rides smooth, gets 30mpg and is easy to drive.

That's opposed to a low, harsh, torquey 16mpg impractical convertible with a racing clutch :o That'll slowly take the form of a leisure car. Don't worry, the Grey Ghost is going nowhere :cheesy:

[philjohnhb]

Looking forward to watching you apply yourself to this. Good luck A.

[Palmer1980]

Nice.


Have fun!

[Albert Trout]

It's not a matter of how long. Modifying is easy... A restoration seems like a real challenge to me. I'm excited to drive a sporty saab hatchback that rides smooth, gets 30mpg and is easy to drive.

That's opposed to a low, harsh, torquey 16mpg impractical convertible with a racing clutch :o That'll slowly take the form of a leisure car. Don't worry, the Grey Ghost is going nowhere :cheesy:

It looks a nice car to be going on with anyway Joe. Restoration's definitely a proper challenge.

No-one ever speaks of the 150 yard 3rd gear wheelspins in the wet, during which you're scared to take your foot off the gas in case you break the gearbox moments, when you start modding :D

[SteveMcqueen]

Needs more red engine paint. :cheesy:

Looks good man!

[jim_mcghee]

nice car. I think grey is the best colour!

[TheRedBaron]

She's a looker!

[KR900]

Looks like a great find!


Have fun with it. Hope to see the finished project in person!

[El_Raul_Turbo_Freak]

worst part about a project thread is that the actual project did not even start yet and I think that is a joke.

[Honkey]

Looks like your power aerial is broken aswell Joe


I was like... Oh god YES! as soon as I saw this thread :D Cant wait to see the end result I'm sure it will be a monster one way or the other!

[philjohnhb]

worst part about a project thread is that the actual project did not even start yet and I think that is a joke.

Yeh, I think you have to wait until at least 2 of the wheels are painted before you post - or maybe the fuel filter changed - or the glass polished - or the thrunge gobbler has been removed from the dangle pin illuminator - mmmm, not sure. Perhaps we should have a whole thread dedicated to deciding when we can start a project thread and what constitutes a project. Then, if your car doesn't match up you can be fined 10 packs of Werther's Originals and be forced to stand outside the local police station, whistling Dixie with your trousers 'round your ankles.

But at least we know that on Saab Central no one will express any trenchant views and that we will allow people to do what they want.

[VikingSpirit]

Looks like a bit of nasty knock to the front there, I sure hope that none of the bumper mounts or chassis legs are twisted, thats the problem with damaged cars, the real damage can sometimes be less obvious. My 900 has had a light front end knock at some point (was super light, barely enough to dent the bonnet) but the alignment of stuff at the front just isn't quite straight any more :(, gaps around the headlight / bumper / hood / indicators are much bigger on the drivers side than the passenger side, doesn't stop the car being driven mind :p

Still great to see another one being saved

Good luck with it:D

[IronJoe]

worst part about a project thread is that the actual project did not even start yet and I think that is a joke.

Really Raul? The project hasn't started yet? Were you with me in the junkyard last night getting a new hood? Were you in my backyard yesterday when I started prepping the new front bumper, or when I stripped the interior, or when I began disassembling the front end?


EDIT:
Oh, well I guess that's my update for today :cheesy:

[philjohnhb]

Really Raul? The project hasn't started yet? Were you with me in the junkyard last night getting a new hood? Were you in my backyard yesterday when I started prepping the new front bumper, or when I stripped the interior, or when I began disassembling the front end?


EDIT:
Oh, well I guess that's my update for today :cheesy:

I think doing a bit of beard stroking, sucking teeth and blowing the dust out of your wallet is the true start of a project.

[IronJoe]

Looks like a bit of nasty knock to the front there, I sure hope that none of the bumper mounts or chassis legs are twisted, thats the problem with damaged cars, the real damage can sometimes be less obvious.

You're so right, my convertible's front end accident tweaked the car a bit, to the point that it made installing the one-piece front bumper difficult. That's why it was the first thing I checked on this car. It appears that the corner light was replaced and the grille was epoxy'd back together. The bumper isn't detached, just the cover is 'tweaked.'

I may decide to replace the rad support just for consistency.

[DanF.]

go joe, go. not the G.I. kind either. hahahah

and dont listen to rual... he's just jealous

[Matthew]

I think doing a bit of beard stroking, sucking teeth and blowing the dust out of your wallet is the true start of a project.
And in my case, it's most of the project :lol: And I don't even have a beard!

[Saab-Daniel]

Matthew, your boyish good looks makes up for the laking beard :cheesy:
Says a guy who's claims to be a reverend, and has no beard either, hmm...
I'm a bit jealous of the size of you guys' wallets... Seems like you have almost infinite funds for your projects!
Daniel.

[IronJoe]

It passed emissions :o :o :o I can't believe that. This thing is awesome! But I'm having a problem with getting it licensed, the gov't seems to think my SPG is worth $3-6000 and would like to tax me accordingly, instead of taxing the amount I really paid. Ugh.

In other news, I'm straightening the saggy parcel shelf and will try some fabric paint. Ordered some buffalo grey leather dye (anybody else used that stuff? from the eGhey seller?) Interior is now clean as a whistle. Pics of mint tool kit complete with edwardian grey touch up paint on the way! :cheesy:

From there, it's a full fluids flush & tuneup, then to paint the front & rear bumpers. Anybody know where to get that "SEM Charcol" bumper paint that's supposed to match Anthracite Grey in such an uncanny manner?

[IronJoe]

Junkyard hunting is the best!!


So far, here are replacement parts I've picked up:
-hood
-PERFECT clear headlights (not milky)
-radiator core support (was a bit damaged)
-grille
-front bumper

Today I'm picking up some SEM Charcoal flexible bumper paint, apparently it's a dead ringer for the satin finish of Anthracite. SPG panels and bumpers are getting it.

The hood is scarabe green, so it gets sanded down and painted eddy grey. Pics to come when I feel like it.

[Goge]

Congrats on passing the sniff test, I couldn't believe it when my SPG passed either. I loved it when the dude at DEQ clipped the tach monitor onto a fuel rail. Had to help him out a bit on that one, he just wasn't picking up any revs for some reason...

I'm really interested to find out how that bumper paint looks... I've been hunting for something premixed for a while. I thought about just going with satin black (easy to find...) for a bit but couldn't go through with it. Please show a comparison picture when you get one!!!!

-Todd

[IronJoe]

Todd,

The paint is SEM #39273, it's a flexible bumper paint. I haven't found a place yet that carries it in-stock, but if you go to SEM's website they have a dealer locator.

[Goge]

Here's a link I found: http://www.levineautoparts.com/semcharmetbu.html

I was going to buy a can to see how it looked.

-TH

[philb]

erm, how much to ship the hood to Ireland? :)

[IronJoe]

erm, how much to ship the hood to Ireland? :)

Yeah the paint is in primo condition, too... A terrible shame I've got to sand it all off. I'd trade straight across for an original eddy grey one ;)

[IronJoe]

Lots of progress (although the project still hasn't started yet).

Total front-end damage is as follows: hood, bumper, grille, headlight, corner light, AC condensor, rad support.

I pulled all of the following. I installed the new radiator support (without removing the radiator, or even draining it :cheesy: ) and installed the new hood. I've found in the past that it's much easier to sand down when it's on the car :cool: The good news is, the frame of the car is straight, and the rad support lined up perfect.

Unfortunately I couldn't use the AC condensor, and don't have a replacement. I really want to have AC in this car, so I'm not sure what I'm going to do just yet. I heard somewhere if you disconnect the AC lines, you can instantly damage the system? Or something? I know nothing about AC.

The rest of the week is dedicated to front & rear bumper restoration. I finally sourced a place in town that carries SEM paint and picked up a few cans. For sure the bumpers are getting it, and depending on how they turn out/match, the SPG panels may be next. Pics to come.

In other news, I got a quote for a headliner, a c-note for a recovering not including removal/installation, which I'd rather do myself. At the same time, I'll bring in the door panels, c-pillars, rear speaker covers, and maybe a parcel shelf.

[IronJoe]

More progress. I pulled the rear bumper & rear bumper extensions. The driver's side one was warped quite a bit so I reshaped it with the heat gun, worked wonders. Tried it on the bumper (looks like a small parking lot bump) but it didn't turn out very well. I'll be hunting for a perfect one, but in the meantime, it will work.

I sanded it down and primered, then hit it with the SEM bumper paint. I gotta say, this stuff is amazing. The color, finish, etc is a great match. The semi-gloss really hides the imperfections and makes it look pro. I'm not going to do the SPG panels because frankly, it matches so well it's not necessary.

Freshly coated bumper with original paint SPG panel:
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/P6250058.sized.jpg

rear end apart:
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/P6250059.sized.jpg


New radiator frame & hood:
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/P6250057.sized.jpg


Next up, front bumper gets the same treatment.

[Goge]

Looks great! I'm going to order some of that stuff so I can start dressing my SPG up a bit. The bumpers are my biggest aesthetic issue!

Thanks for the info, I appreciate it.

-Todd

[IronJoe]

More praise for SEM bumper paint!

This weekend I sanded down the front bumper cover, and painted it with the SEM stuff. Of course, it works wonders. I also came up with a great way to refresh the chrome strips, we'll see how it turns out!

I also picked up a new (used) AC Compressor, so once that's installed the front end will be back in action, with a new bumper, lights, grille, rad support, and hood.

http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image009.sized.jpg

http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image008.sized.jpg

And finally, a clean interior (with a new steering wheel pad)
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image010.sized.jpg

[saabismi]

You should realy change that glovebox cover:roll::suprised;I wish i had an Spg/Aero...yep Aero sounds better:)

[IronJoe]

The SPG has a front end again. Bumper, lights, grille, turn signals, chrome trim and refit SPG bumper extensions. I didn't repaint the bumper extensions, the new paint on the bumper matches great so it wasn't necessary.

Bumper assembled:
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/P7120061.sized.jpg

Installed:
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/P7120062.sized.jpg


Fitting the hood:
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/P7120065.sized.jpg


All buttoned up:
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/P7120069.sized.jpg


http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/P7120070.sized.jpg

[VikingSpirit]

Awesome work there Joe, The panel gaps look spot on! Really glad to see that the front end damage was just Superficial
.

So whats next for Project SPG?:cool:

[IronJoe]

Thanks, replacing the radiator support was instrumental. The hood, lights, grille, etc all bolt to it. If that's not straight, nothing is ;)

After the hood is painted I'll tackle the mechanical stuff (I'm better at that anyhow). I'll refresh with factory spec cap & rotor, plugs, wires, air filter, vac hoses, and an oil change this week, and replace any worn suspension components.

From there I will slap on a mint set of SPG wheels and start driving. It'll be a rolling-resto at that point, doing the headliner, parcel shelf, door panels, dash etc. Somewhere in there I'll be getting the AC recharged. That's pretty much it!

Then of course comes body kit, whaletail, fat wheel arches, louvers, and super aeros. Just kidding! :cheesy:

[Matthew]

Very very nice work on the bumpers :cool: Looks as good as new!

How much time do you esimate you spent on the bumper refurb?

[IronJoe]

Not that much actually... On the rear, I went through the prep quickly because it's a bit damaged and I'm looking for another one. So the rear was my "test panel" with just some quick medium grit sanding, then fine grit, then a wash, black primer, and paint. Even though I went very quickly, the SEM paint is so good it really covers some of my less than perfect prepwork. On the front I was more careful, but the result was the same - this flexible paint has a great fudge factor and matches incredibly well.

So I'd say two days worth, not including assembly. Definitely the most rewarding part of the exterior rebuild.

Another closeup pic:
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/P7120071.sized.jpg

[philjohnhb]

It's just so tempting, the thought of getting a hard top as a daily driver, I could use that for windsurfing and get rid of the V Dub camper - couldn't I?

[S double-a B]

Hello, how many cans of the bumper paint do you think it would take to do the front and rear bumpers as well as the front and rear bumper extensions.

Thanks :cool:

[Goge]

Hey S-double-A
No real reason for this post, other than to say I'm in Bend right now too (hometown is Portland).

Nice day! Not too hot, not too cold. Took my family to the Lava River Cave today, hadn't been there for 20 years. They loved it.

-Todd

[IronJoe]

Hello, how many cans of the bumper paint do you think it would take to do the front and rear bumpers as well as the front and rear bumper extensions.

Thanks :cool:

I'd get three. I used two cans for the front & rear bumpers, so if you were doing extensions too you'd need one more. I used several light coats, worked out pretty well. Good luck!

[GlenM]

That bumper paint looks like good stuff.

I have been wanting to paint the bumpers and aero panels on my convertible since I bought it two years ago. Thre are a few minor scuffs and some panels seem to have faded more than others.

Although I used to spray paint a lot years ago it was allways with cellulose and it really needs to be two-pack for plastic, so that has put me off, as has the cost of paying a body shop to do it. Might have to investigate having a box of these aerosols shipped to the UK.

[IronJoe]

The one hiccup in the otherwise perfect leather interior is the driver seat bottom. It's got creases, cracks, and an inch-long tear. The driver seat back is a little worn but I picked up some pro leather dye to bring it back. Should come out perfect.

Anyway, I found the holy grail of c900 parts, an original untorn, unworn leather seat bottom in buffalo grey!

Old seat:
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image030.sized.jpg

Closeup of pwnage:
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image029.sized.jpg

New leather!!!
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image031.sized.jpg


I'm very excited about getting this installed. I reskinned both front seats on my convertible, so I'm well versed on getting them to fit. My only concern is the stitching is a little loose on one corner, I may decide to take it in with my headliner, etc to the upholstery shop and get it tightened up.

That's all for now!

[IronJoe]

Well the SPG saw some road yesterday. Got my set of four minty SPG wheels fitted with rubber, stock 195/60's and all mounted up. While inside, I checked the pads/rotors/balljoints/tierodends/boots/etc, and miraculously they all looked fine. Good meat left on all brake pads, which surprised me!

Changed the transmission fluid for the wonderful Redline MTL. Outgoing fluid, although low, didn't have the brassy shimmer of past transmissions that would indicate worn synchros. Also the drain plug magnet had some metal shavings, but no chips or chunks. ;) I'm crossing my fingers that this transmission will last a while.


Next up on the project list is paintless dent removal on the doors (one on each), hood (one in the middle), and rear quarter (one by the taillight). Once this is done, I will be removing the sunroof and getting the hood & sunroof painted. At the same time, the headliner will be recovered.

The only other mechanical issues that remain is a worn clutch pedal (needs bushing installed), a spongy brake pedal (not sure yet), and a slight vibration when rolling (not RPM or gear-specific). If anyone has ideas regarding the brake pedal or the vibration, please chime in.

[idiot_saabvant]

Squishy brakes can be non-stainless brake lines or overheated brake fluid.

pierre

[IronJoe]

Hmm... I sucked out as much as I could from the resevoir and replaced with the spendy synthetic dot 4. Is there a better way to drain the remaining fluid?

[Breakin5speeds]

Joe Squishy brakes can be a number of things, best thing to do is start with flushing/bleeding all the lines, at that age you may need a master sometime down the road, both of my 87s have needed master cylinders, as for the vibration, if it's not wheels, then it could be a wheel bearing, loose tie rod, or more likely axle, I would service both axles, you'll probably be glad you did, just new boots, and pack them with EP grease, I have had otherwise good axles cause vibrations due to lack of lubrication/cushioning, also cheapo brake pads can give a squishy feel, and at moments I have had slightly softer pedal due to the old skool calipers in the front...also Joe generally overlooked "mechanical" area are the bushings on the rear axle torsion links, sometimes refered to as dog bones, just a side note.....

[philjohnhb]

Hmm... I sucked out as much as I could from the resevoir and replaced with the spendy synthetic dot 4. Is there a better way to drain the remaining fluid?

Sadly you'll have to bleed all four lines. It's likely that the fluid won't have been changed for a while and that moisture will have made it's evil way into the lines and only a flush will do.

[IronJoe]

Made lots of progress on the SPG last night. Pulled the headliner, which was actually much easier than I thought. I used the walkthrough from twinsaabs.com.

Also I pulled the sunroof, again not nearly as bad as I expected. The top of the sunroof is getting painted as the clear has aged quite poorly (they must have painted it separate, because the rest of the roof is just fine, no peeling!)

So this weekend I'm getting the headliner, c-pillars, and sunroof bottom recovered in the stock cream color, and the door panels in a close-as-possible grey.

In addition, the hood and sunroof top is going in for some eddy grey, and the body is getting the paintless dent removal service to massage out a few door dings.

When this is done, the SPG should be cosmetically sound and ready to hit the road! Pics soon.

[IronJoe]

Welp, progress. First the interior - headliner, c-pilliars, inner sunroof, and door inserts are at the upholstery shop. Will be done next week. Also getting my new leather seat skin taken care of.

Hopefully this weekend I'll be getting the exterior dents fixed, there are one in each door, the hood, and the rear quarter. I took pics.


The worst one (although easily accesible with taillamp removed:
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image057.sized.jpg



Hood dent (easy to get to, it's just underneath the hood fabric.
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image058.sized.jpg

[IronJoe]

Progress:
-dent in hood is virtually gone
-paint for hood & sunroof is mixed & ready
-sanding begins today, paint this weekend.
-interior pieces come in this week!

I picked up an original leather wrapped steering wheel at the j/y on saturday, it's the three-spoke that's exactly like the rubber one, only it's leather. Anybody know what cars this came off of? I figure it's things like this that are fair game to install on the SPG but I'd like to know what years they were available to be sure. Keeping this "stock."

I painted the vents & rain gutter caps black with Duplicolor Trim Paint. Great stuff, it's very thin so it keeps the original look and finish of the painted item. More like a stain than a paint. I recommend it.

Also I found the driver's window gear had some teeth worn off, so I picked up a good used one at the j/y. This will get replaced so my window rolls up and down correctly :cheesy:

That's all for now. Pics soon.

[IronJoe]

Moving forward:
-sunroof is sanded and ready for paint
-hood is stripped, sanding in progress
-upholstery is done, picking up tonight.

Sunroof pwnage:
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image061_001.sized.jpg

sanding down:
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image063.sized.jpg

400 then 600 grit:
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image064.sized.jpg

Bye bye scarabe green!
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image065.sized.jpg


Parkin' hard:
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image057_001.sized.jpg

[SteveMcqueen]

Hard parking VW stylz yo.

Looks amazing man! That bumper paint might be something I will have to invest in. I think Wesco carries is regularly and they have many locations...If you need more or something.

I have a vision, it came to me late last night in the midst of my food poisoning. A murdered out SPG. DOOO IT!

[IronJoe]

Hard parking VW stylz yo.

LOL @ thecarlounge.net

Anyway, upholstery came in last night. Headliner, door panels, sunroof, & c-pilliars. They look amazing in person, sorry bout the terrible pics.

If anyone has been on the fence about getting their interior redone, DO IT. You will be so happy, it's not as expensive as you'd think and totally transforms the car. :cheesy:

http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image050.sized.jpg

http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image067.sized.jpg

http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image068.sized.jpg


In other news, the paint booth is getting constructed tonight, painting begins tomorrow.

[philb]

How much is "not expensive"? I think re-covering a headliner is about 200 euro over here, hence it has gotten low priority. I did manage to pick up 1 brand new door car, and 2 brand new door panels in sweden though, for about 25 euros :)

[IronJoe]

How much is "not expensive"? I think re-covering a headliner is about 200 euro over here, hence it has gotten low priority. I did manage to pick up 1 brand new door car, and 2 brand new door panels in sweden though, for about 25 euros :)
everything above plus re-sewing my driver leather seat bottom came to around 350.

[IronJoe]

Yesterday we shot some edwardian grey! Hit the underside of the hood with two coats, the outside of the hood & sunroof got 3 coats. The metal flake base coat layed down very well, it helped that it was one of the hottest days in a while yesterday. Luckily, today is also going to be 80* or so, and we'll be spraying the clear.

I have pics. No way to get them off the camera right now. Anyway, more to come!

[IronJoe]

Lots of progress over the weekend.

-Shot clearcoat on sunroof and hood
-installed headliner/interior pieces
-refinished leather steering wheel/shift boot
-installed hood and sunroof.

Here's some pics:

Sanded hood:
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image070.sized.jpg

Base coat on sunroof:
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image071.sized.jpg

Base coat on hood:
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image072.sized.jpg


Headliner installed:
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image077.sized.jpg

http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image079.sized.jpg

http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image078.sized.jpg

[IronJoe]

C-pilliar:
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image080.sized.jpg


Pretty steering wheel, but leather is faded and black is brown in places
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image074.sized.jpg

Closeup of some damage:
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image075.sized.jpg

These two products saved the day!! Re-dye with black kiwi leather dye, then seal it in with leather sheen. It's an acrylic finish that produces the most amazing results. I didn't get an after shot, will take on tonight. But trust me, the wheel and leather boot both look brand new.
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/Image076.sized.jpg

Didn't get any pics of the hood or sunroof with the clearcoat shot, but here's one of both installed:
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album85/08_26_07_1703.jpg


I'll be taking much better pics today with something other than a camera phone :roll:

[SteveMcqueen]

It keeps looking better and better, thats for damn sure.

[IronJoe]

Interior first:
Reconditioned leather shift boot
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album97/P4300218.sized.jpg

Reconditioned leather steering wheel
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album97/P4300244.sized.jpg

Recovered door cards
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album97/P4300223.sized.jpg

Headliner + sunroof panel
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album97/P4300221.sized.jpg

[IronJoe]

Exterior:
Shadowworks taught me this - take pics while it's still wet, it hides imperfections!
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album96/P4300234.sized.jpg

That's some good matchin' paint.
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album96/P4300236.sized.jpg

Repainted sunroof panel
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album96/P4300242.sized.jpg

Side view
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album96/P4300227.sized.jpg

Nice hood... missing the emblem though
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album96/P4300225.sized.jpg

Artsy shot, or dropped camera?
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album96/P4300240.sized.jpg


Next up: whaletail, vent covers, wheel arches & super aeros.

[KR900]

Nice work! Your SPG is looking great!

Is your upholstery shop in the south end? I've got seriousl headliner envy.

[IronJoe]

Thanks KR. The shop is Sure Fit in Tacoma, right off I-5. They did the headliner for $145, and a bunch of misc stuff. Headliner, sunroof panel, c-pilliars and door cards came to 350ish, along with sewing up my new leather seat bottom.

I was a little nervous about yanking it out and installing myself (as the c900 i've had for 6 years doesn't really have a headliner :cheesy: ) but it's not a bad job to do. And it gives you a chance to clear out the sunroof drains, which can get clogged which causes leaks.

Go for it. You won't be disappointed.

[DanComden]

The headliner looks great. It does make a big difference in the livability of the car, doesn't it?

I think the most time consuming part of the headliner job is cleaning the cruddy aged foam from the old shell. I had good luck scraping with a plastic spatula held next to a shop vac to pick up the foam dust. My second liner I did in an easy day along with some other projects while the glue was setting. Will be doing it again for my '86 within the next month or so if you want to check it out, KR900.

Nice job on the paint and leather work, IronJoe!

[DanComden]

One other thing -- that little square coin tray can get looking pretty shabby after a few years. I've found that if you clean it out, rub most of the furry stuff out and then give it a few coats of black tool dip paint it not only makes it look tons better, but it's much easier to keep clean.

[KR900]

The headliner looks great. It does make a big difference in the livability of the car, doesn't it?

Will be doing it again for my '86 within the next month or so if you want to check it out, KR900.



Dan- you do the headliner yourself? Are the results as good as what IronJoe has shown in his photos?

[DanComden]

Dan- you do the headliner yourself? Are the results as good as what IronJoe has shown in his photos?
Yup I have done the headliner work in my '85 and my '90, including C-Pillars and sunroof.

"As good as" is subjective, going off the pics. IronJoe's result looks great. I used thicker fabric from what I can tell, so I don't have wrinkles in the same places. I also goofed on the main shell on my first one and didn't leave enough for the sun roof opening so ended up with a weird layered look that actually is nicer for the rally car needs in terms of clips for sunglasses and potential routing of wiring. That's what I told myself anyhow. :lol:

You're certainly welcome to have a look. It's not that hard if you have the space to do the work. I'd rather replace a headliner than a steering rack!

[KurBads]

Are the results as good as what IronJoe has shown in his photos?

I`ve done headliners/pillars/sunroofs on both my c900 ...

first has tiger skin on the roof that is matched to puma/tan cloth interior

other got light grey factory look headliner. I bought a material that is almost like original and I can say that it looks 100% the same as IronJoe`s.

So, this is mine:
http://www.saabphotos.com/gallery/albums/KurBads-c900-airflow/c900_009.sized.jpg


My suggestion - do a good search and find the right material ... best of all - the original look

[Goge]

Hey Joe, quick question. I got some SEM paint, thinking about starting on my bumpers. I'm wondering what primer you used? Did you buy something special (flexible?) or just use normal primer?

I'm including a gratuitous pic of my '87 SPG. Sorry for the Porsche content!

-Todd

http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k227/tahamilton/Pic1.jpg

[IronJoe]

I'm including a gratuitous pic of my '87 SPG. Sorry for the Porsche content!

Oh you tease. I love the 914!! (i'm an aircooled fan, we've got two beetles) A yellow & black bumblebee 914 was going to be my first car, but I couldn't fit in it comfortably (too tall).


For the rear bumper, I used just a plain black sandable primer. But the SEM paint works so well, I decided on the front bumper to just sand it and paint it, no primer... turned out great. As long as you rough up the original anthracite enough, the paint has no problem adhering.

[saabismi]

I realy wish to know how the seats turn out:roll:

[Goge]

Joe-
You're a man after my very own heart... bugs, KG's, squareback, even a notchback... I've loved every one of them I had. My daughters are even brainwashed into liking old bugs better than the new species.

Bumblebee 914's are worth alot of money now. Maybe $15k if in super condition. Limited Edition and all y'know. They made an orange and white one nicknamed a 'creamsicle' too. There's a myth about a green and white version called a 'grasshopper'... possibly true. They were all kinda ugly, the bumblebee being the least ugly in my opinion.

Thread hijack retracted...

Thanks for the tip on priming... I'm probably going to use a primer because I need to sand off pretty much every scab of paint on the back bumper. If I could just find some chrome stripping the right size- some of mine is missing and/or broken. I don't even care if it's chrome, I'd be fine painting it over. But I need new stuff so I don't have gaps and ugliness.

-TH

[spg1]

Yup I have done the headliner work in my '85 and my '90, including C-Pillars and sunroof.

"As good as" is subjective, going off the pics. IronJoe's result looks great. I used thicker fabric from what I can tell, so I don't have wrinkles in the same places. I also goofed on the main shell on my first one and didn't leave enough for the sun roof opening so ended up with a weird layered look that actually is nicer for the rally car needs in terms of clips for sunglasses and potential routing of wiring. That's what I told myself anyhow. :lol:

You're certainly welcome to have a look. It's not that hard if you have the space to do the work. I'd rather replace a headliner than a steering rack!


What kind of material did you use and where did you get it? Did it have foam on the back?

[Goge]

I'm going to order a headliner kit from these guys pretty soon:

http://www.stockinteriors.com/autoheadliner.asp

I requested some color samples from them... I'm having a hard time deciding whether the color of my original headliner is 'light grey', or 'beige'... or something in-between. The samples are free.

Their stuff apparently has 1/4" foam backing. I have no idea what the original was like... anybody? All the foam in mine has apparently gone somewhere, like maybe where all the left socks go.

-TH

[Squaab99t]

I'm going to order a headliner kit from these guys pretty soon:

http://www.stockinteriors.com/autoheadliner.asp

I requested some color samples from them... I'm having a hard time deciding whether the color of my original headliner is 'light grey', or 'beige'... or something in-between. The samples are free.

Their stuff apparently has 1/4" foam backing. I have no idea what the original was like... anybody? All the foam in mine has apparently gone somewhere, like maybe where all the left socks go.

-TH
Original was 1/8" or metric equiv. 1/4 works fine except on the sunroof it is too tight for my liking.

[DanComden]

"headliner material" was obtained from the local chain fabric store. Yes it is foam-backed. They didn't have many options, maybe two, but to be honest it matters little to me what color the headliner is as long as it doesn't clash horribly with the rest of the interior. I think headlining is one of those things you don't notice much unless it's really bad or really garish.

Thinner is better. 1/4" is on the thick side, as Squaab99t noted, but it does work. Even less nice on the door cards but it still works if you give it a good stretch.

What kind of material did you use and where did you get it? Did it have foam on the back?

[spg1]

Should the top material be a bit stretchy also?

[Goge]

Dan, you're right. The local fabric place has some headliner, lightish grey, and I think it's a tad thinner than 1/4 inch. I should just buy some of that stuff, nobody would know or care anyway! It's cheaper too. I already have some 3M spray adhesive anyway...

-TH

[woywitka]

Damm that car looks really good. Great job!

[IronJoe]

The SPG is now my daily driver. What a car! I love it. It's a very different drive than my convertible is. The stock T3 & stock compression ratio makes for a torquey, peppy little car. It hits full boost (yellow-red line) about 1000 RPM sooner than my airflow :cheesy:

I just got an alignment done, money well-spent. There was a slight vibration in the suspension which I thought was a wheel bearing, or other issue, but it cleared up just fine with the alignment.

The other thing... it's a warm car! Holds the heat in better than the soft-top for sure. Rear defroster works wonders, although I think it could benefit from a rear-wiper. Too bad they didn't come stock.

[IronJoe]

The trip odo has never worked. Recently, the odometer went as well. So I tore into the dash to fix it.

The problem is fairly simple, the metal cog on the main spindle is pressed on, and over time this gives out. The metal cog will then spin freely from the spindle, so when the spindle turns the cog won't. I've remedied this two ways: On my convertible, we took the whole assembly apart and re-pressed on the metal cog tightly. But I didn't feel like removing the spindle this time, so I just used some super glue and carefully glued the cog to the shaft. Luckily, this part doesn't see much pressure (unless you reset the trip odo whilst driving, rumor?) so it should hold just fine.

While I had the dash apart, I decided to install a taurus cupholder GASP. The original radio was gone, as the PO had installed an aftermarket one then removed it. So this was better than a hole in the dash, or another cubbyhole. It already had a cubby hole where the stock equalizer was, so I didn't need another.

As this is my commuter car, not having cupholders is unsafe, practically dangerous if you're merging and juggling hot coffee. That's how I'm justifying the non-stock addition. Plus no modifications were made to the car, so it's perfectly reversible and removable with radio-removers (or coat hangers!)

Also gave it a wax with cleaner wax (thanks palmer). Even though I'm terrible at waxing, it came out alright. Pics to follow.

[philb]

As a mod, super aeros are easier to reverse than a cupholder. Vent covers also. Lowering springs can be reversed.

[IronJoe]

You remove your super aeros, and I'll remove my cupholder. I'll race you.



3, 2, 1,


Go.

[Goge]

Joe-
Our cars are twins. My odo was defunct too, and I used the super-glue trick on the metal cog a couple thousand miles ago. So far, so good!

I finished my headliner install this weekend, I bought some stuff from the local fabric place and it worked great. A few slight wrinkles here and there, but not too bad.

Keep up the great work!

-Todd

[IronJoe]

They certainly are todd! Let's see your headliner... I'm curious.

I also attempted to dye the fabric on my parcel shelf, but when I started to clean the fabric the cloth started to disintegrate! So I'm going to have to recover it also. Unlike the headliner, this looks like a job I can do (flat, no curves to go around!!) so I'm going to try it out. What kind of glue did you use? Spray adhesive?

[Matthew]

The steering wheel and gearstick boot really do look great. Good to see you re-covered the door panels with fabric and not vinyl/leather.

The best headliner fabric has a fine fabric covering the foam. Adds strength. For UK people, Woolies sell the cheaper stuff with the bare foam underside.

Did you wet-flat and mahine polish the finish on the sunroof panel and bonnet?

As for bumper painting, you could use an acid etch primer to get your key and then a high-build primer to mask defects. Top coat as usual. If you're painting onto plastic then you need a plastic primer or colour-coat which is specifically designed to go onto bare plastic.

[IronJoe]

Thanks matthew. As for the new paint, I haven't wetsanded the finish yet. When I attempted to cut & buff my convertible's new paint, I screwed up quite a bit and burned through in places. The gorgeous paint is now 10ft at best. So, rather than repeat my mistakes I'm going to have the paint professionally cut & buffed, and have the rest of the car polished to bring back the paint as much as possible.

The clear on the hatch looks weathered though, hopefully I can save it, if not the car may need a full respray in a few years. I want to keep as much of the original paint as possible, though.

[Goge]

Joe-
Yeah my back panel looks bad too, I was thinking of trying to find some carpet somewhere. But dye may work too (if mine doesn't disintegrate upon cleaning). Where did you go for dye?
-TH

[Matthew]

Sorry to hear you burned the paint on the 'vert.

Dual-action polishers are a safe bet for a novice as they don't burn through the paint. Excessive pressure on the pad causes it to stall and it does nothing. I have one.

Rotaries are quicker and are sometimes essential for very hard paint, but should be used with caution.

Just looked more at the headliner pics - very nice :cool: A new headliner makes such a difference to the inside of the car. I'm almost considering doing mine for that reason even though it's not saggy! I've seen a few done in person and that's given me more confidence.

[saabismi]

the sunroof panel and the roof paint dont quite match...have you thought about a full respray?i know it will be costy but thats just a thought:)and how are those seats developing?

[Rogozhin]

IronJoe

I can't wait to start working on the SPG (finally got it for $400-but it's going to take a whole weekend) that I'm brining home (it'll be my daily driver as well)! You're quite the inspiration for me to get wrenching on it! I'm going to have to do that trans swap before anything else though :evil:

If you're ever over on this side (Ephrata, MosesLake, Quincy, or Wenatchee) drop me a line!

Keep up the good work man!




Rog

[IronJoe]

Awesome rogo! Let me know if I can be of any help.
Trans isn't that bad. Are you going rebuilt, used, etc?

the sunroof panel and the roof paint dont quite match...have you thought about a full respray?i know it will be costy but thats just a thought:)and how are those seats developing?
It's not a 100% match, but I think it's pretty darn good. They matched to the paint code, which is quoted as an 80% +/- match for color as they can't account for the variances of 20 year-old paint. But I'd say they got better than 80%

A lot of the difference you see in the pictures comes from the finish, still needs to be cut & buffed. In person it's much less noticeable and most of the time I forget we even painted it.

A new paint job is most definitely in this car's future, perhaps in a year or two. My main motivation was to make the hood something other than green :cheesy: And since the sunroof was being removed anyway (for the headliner) and I didn't have to mask anything, I figured we could shoot that as well. Ended up being very easy and well worth it.

[IronJoe]

Well, the SPG's muffler called it quits last night. The connection to the tailpipe has rusted out and broke off. Luckily, the tailpipe was not damaged at all and is salvageable. The OE replacement starla-walker is on the way.

Other than that, this is a fantastic car! hitting upwards of 29mpg. Handles great in the wet and snow.

[Boosted]

Handles great in the wet and snow.

I hope there isn't salt on those roads Joe. I don't understand why anyone would drive a c900 in such conditions, since I have been battling rust on my car since I bought it.

[IronJoe]

I hope there isn't salt on those roads Joe. I don't understand why anyone would drive a c900 in such conditions, since I have been battling rust on my car since I bought it.

Not a single bit :cheesy: We don't use salt 'round these parts.


I'm trying to remember... have I seen a c900 with rust? Not around here.

[woywitka]

May I ask about the leather dye you were considering for the seat bottom? I have the same colour and was wondering where you sourced it from?

[IronJoe]

hey tom,

The leather dye is from an eBay seller located in the UK. IIRC the keywords saab 900 and grey were useful in searching for it.

FYI I still haven't tried it out... work and grad school taking up so much time! :roll:

[unkleG'sif]

hey tom,

The leather dye is from an eBay seller located in the UK. IIRC the keywords saab 900 and grey were useful in searching for it.

FYI I still haven't tried it out... work and grad school taking up so much time! :roll:

i think THIS (http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Leather-cleaner-JAGUAR-SAAB-RANGE-ROVER-BMW-AUDI_W0QQitemZ320189799510QQihZ011QQcategoryZ10390 QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem)is him..... often changes his ebay profile, but he's a SOC member and active over here ;)

G

[woywitka]

hey tom,

The leather dye is from an eBay seller located in the UK. IIRC the keywords saab 900 and grey were useful in searching for it.

FYI I still haven't tried it out... work and grad school taking up so much time! :roll:

Cheers!

Real life does take away from Saab time:(

[IronJoe]

Had an interesting leak situation a few weeks ago. Oil began POURING out of the car, I was refilling a quart every couple days!!! Needless to say I stopped driving it.


A week or so previous, I had noticed my PCV valve/splitter that plugs into the valve cover was not fitting properly. After a closer inspection, it seems the small vac nipple had broken off at some point, and the PO installed a small brass fitting where the original piece had broken off. Of course, this was not the right size for the vac hose and it became unplugged several times, resulting in a vac leak.

I replaced the valve with a "good used one" I had, and that was that. It turns out, the "good" used valve I replaced it with was clogged :nono; And this created crankcase pressure. It pushed oil past my seals, and the main offender turned out to be the turbo oil return o-ring.

Replaced the o-ring and all is good. :cheesy: The car has been going strong for about 7k miles now, other than my stupidity, no problems. I moved recently, and this little swedish pickup truck was instrumental in getting my belongings to and fro! I can't believe how much these hatchbacks can carry, I'm still in awe!


who needs a newer car!

[Breakin5speeds]

Had an interesting leak situation a few weeks ago. Oil began POURING out of the car, I was refilling a quart every couple days!!! Needless to say I stopped driving it.


A week or so previous, I had noticed my PCV valve/splitter that plugs into the valve cover was not fitting properly. After a closer inspection, it seems the small vac nipple had broken off at some point, and the PO installed a small brass fitting where the original piece had broken off. Of course, this was not the right size for the vac hose and it became unplugged several times, resulting in a vac leak.

I replaced the valve with a "good used one" I had, and that was that. It turns out, the "good" used valve I replaced it with was clogged :nono; And this created crankcase pressure. It pushed oil past my seals, and the main offender turned out to be the turbo oil return o-ring.

Replaced the o-ring and all is good. :cheesy: The car has been going strong for about 7k miles now, other than my stupidity, no problems. I moved recently, and this little swedish pickup truck was instrumental in getting my belongings to and fro! I can't believe how much these hatchbacks can carry, I'm still in awe!


who needs a newer car!


They are amazing cars, they just "fit" me and my life, I used to move to and from college in my Saabs all by myself, and at one point I fit my whole mechanics Tool box in the back of my 900 SPG and towed a loaded 5x8 Uhaul trailer all the way from Maine to PA and back to Maine again all in a 2 day span, and I beat a Chevy S-10 Blazer with a 4.3 Vortec out of a toll booth to boot!

As for the check valve going and putting boost into the crankcase, most Saab Shops remove the valve and cap it off, my last 3 Saab turbos I have done that with good results.....

I am envious Joe, All my Saabs have been fun and loved, but when I had a 99 turbo my 87 SPG was my daily driver and I LOVED it, your page makes me want another SPG SO MUCH! Keep it 87 :cheesy:

[idiot_saabvant]

Yep I like having a second T16 as a daily driver, and not have to worry about random damage or having to hurry to repair your "only" driver.

pierre

[TheRedBaron]

not have to worry about random damage or having to hurry to repair your "only" driver.Yeah, these are the reasons for my being in the market for a second 900...

...at least that's what I tell my girlfriend! ;)

[DanComden]

... I moved recently, and this little swedish pickup truck was instrumental in getting my belongings to and fro! I can't believe how much these hatchbacks can carry, I'm still in awe!


who needs a newer car!

A couple of years ago I attracted a small audience in the parking lot of the local Home Depot as I crammed two big rolls of fiberglass insulation and three full sheets of 1/4" plywood into the back of my 1990 daily driver. I rarely regret getting rid of the full size Blazer I used to own prior to Saabs. Swedish pickup, indeed!

Add a roof rack and the possibilities are even more amazing.

[S double-a B]

My roof racks have been used many a time to transport an 8ft. long beer pong table from place to place. :cheesy: :cheesy: Got lots of strange looks ;)

[Breakin5speeds]

Yeah, these are the reasons for my being in the market for a second 900...

...at least that's what I tell my girlfriend! ;)

You don't need no stinkin' excuse! If she's worth keeping she won't care....my last girl tried to make me get rid of my 900....well the car's still here, she's not....ask me if I regret it;)

[IronJoe]

thanks b5s ;-)

[Breakin5speeds]

No Problem Joe....I am truly honored to be in your Sig.....

Can't wait to get me a daily driver so I can really tear into my current car with a megasquirt install, think I have the reluctor ring and VR sensor mounting worked out, along with the knock sensing, my buddy JP (Green9kAero) will have to help with some parts for the install and a spare timing cover and crank pulley for mocking up the fabrication.....

[TheRedBaron]

You don't need no stinkin' excuse! If she's worth keeping she won't care....my last girl tried to make me get rid of my 900....well the car's still here, she's not....ask me if I regret it;)Haha, no she loves the saabs, in fact when her lease ends, she might be getting a 900 5 speed, if I can teach her to drive stick. Although I cringe at the thought of teaching anyone to drive stick on a c900, with our gearboxes.

[IronJoe]

Although I cringe at the thought of teaching anyone to drive stick on a c900, with our gearboxes.

Naww.... no big deal. As a matter of fact, it's teaching two lessons in one! How to drive a stick, and how to push a car home!

[Matthew]

Joe - what colour was the SEM bumper paint you used?

[IronJoe]

Joe - what colour was the SEM bumper paint you used?

You are just refusing to read the thread, arent you :lol:

SEM #39273

Page two buddy :cool:

[Matthew]

I promise I looked... too hastily it seems! How did you decide on that that "Charcoal Metallic" colour?

[IronJoe]

I promise I looked... too hastily it seems! How did you decide on that that "Charcoal Metallic" colour?

Saabnet threads quoting that part number as a perfect match... I went for it!

[IronJoe]

Finally got around to getting the hood & sunroof cut and buffed. Had a four stage deep polish done and exterior detail. Also had some windshield dings removed.

Pics:
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album118/PA200076_Large.sized.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y200/anathemasrevenge/DSC_0069-1.jpg

http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album118/PA200070_Large.sized.jpg

http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/album118/PA200075_Large.sized.jpg

[ejenner]

That's a fine photo. A totally standard looking car. It actually looks really good.

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y200/anathemasrevenge/DSC_0069-1.jpg

[Boosted]

That's a fine photo. A totally standard looking car. It actually looks really good.

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y200/anathemasrevenge/DSC_0069-1.jpg

A little TOO good for a DD.

[philjohnhb]

That's looking very smart indeed - I notice you just couldn't resist the vent covers, that's where it all begins.

[SwimDude0614]

beautiful SPG joe!

i'd love to own a C900 is such fantastic condition but i've no idea how to finance it (trying to get a decent job as a 17 year old in this economy isn't very easy). how much do you suppose you've spent on this car all together? two prices would satisfy my curiosity: price for car, and combined price of all parts anything you've sent off (like the $350 for fabric stuff). it doesn't have to be exact, just a guestimate.

Thanks!
David

[ejenner]

SwimDude... get used to the idea of doing all your own work. It's what makes the difference between a bolt-on ricer-racer and a quality car.

[SwimDude0614]

SwimDude... get used to the idea of doing all your own work. It's what makes the difference between a bolt-on ricer-racer and a quality car.

i love doing the work on my car. my dad keeps trying to tell me "just send it into the shop this time!". or better yet, "maybe its time to take it to the dealer and let them look at it" :nono; riiiighhtt.... :roll:. anyway fact is, price for parts add up. and that alone is quite an expense to me. so, that's what i was wondering about.

[IronJoe]

beautiful SPG joe!

i'd love to own a C900 is such fantastic condition but i've no idea how to finance it (trying to get a decent job as a 17 year old in this economy isn't very easy). how much do you suppose you've spent on this car all together? two prices would satisfy my curiosity: price for car, and combined price of all parts anything you've sent off (like the $350 for fabric stuff). it doesn't have to be exact, just a guestimate.

Thanks!
David

Well, in the first post I divulge the price of the car - $750. I really haven't spent that much on this car, I really got lucky. I bought good used replacement parts for the front-end from junkyards and eBay and installed myself. I bought paint for the hood & sunroof and painted myself, much cheaper.

So probably $750 for the car, $200 for parts, $100 for paint, $350 for interior refinishing, and perhaps another $200 for miscellaneous. So even if I'm forgetting a lot, that's still under $2000. The interior stuff was the only thing I "sent off" - I have done all the rest myself.

Basically it all begins with finding the right car. There are basket-cases, and then there are great deals. This particular SPG has been very easy - doesn't lose oil, boosts fine, original turbo and transmission are just perfect, passed emissions no problem last month.

The only major maintenance I have done really has been replacing the torn CV boot and doing the front brakes. The only problem I have with it is I can only drive one car at a time ;oops:

EDIT: I have also broken two headlights due to rocks on the highway. Same headlight, two different occasions. Luckily I keep around spare parts so I had two replacements ;-)

[SwimDude0614]

$750 :o

wow...
$1100 for mine in St. Louis. in the last year i've done a head gasket replacement, tranny, and now i get to do one of the CV joints. and its 88 n/a.

so now i know, if i want to own a good saab and still pay the rent, move to new england!!!

[saabismi]

$750 :o

wow...
$1100 for mine in St. Louis. in the last year i've done a head gasket replacement, tranny, and now i get to do one of the CV joints. and its 88 n/a.

so now i know, if i want to own a good saab and still pay the rent, move to new england!!!
Why england?

[IronJoe]

Why New England?

I live on the west coast ;)

[saabismi]

Oh, he said New England...I need glasses.
Nice SPG btw;)

[SwimDude0614]

Why New England?

I live on the west coast ;)

aahhh, well that sure explains why your cars don't have any rust! i just thought you were in new england cause i'd swear i saw pics of the grey ghost at some convention in new england.

[ooopseyesharted]

You could always move to florida too.
I just got my rust free 89 900t for 1000 bucks.
Original owner, all new parts, 106k miles....I love it!

[saabrider]

Nice to see another Saab 900 owner in the same state and not far away. I want to get my 83 900 engine rebuilt with more horsepower and intercooler it then start on the body and interior. My 900 is not a SPG but i love my 900. THe 900 SPG are very cool looking and would like to have one of those as well. Those in my Saab club have many of those as well as other 900's that seem to be the car of choice, even against totally ricked out 9000's and those with newer 900's, after the new body style change. We have a lot of great Saab events and would be great to have my 900 in great show shape and participate in those events. Great Photos and keep in touch with a fello local 900 owner. I am up in Arlington. Mike

[davestlouis]

I like that silver BMW E12 528/530 visible in a couple of the driveway pics...very cool predecessor to the 86 535i that lurks in my garage!

[saabrider]

Hello, I received 2 Saab 900's for free, one lowered 4 door, 1984 and one 83, 3 door hatchback also turbo. I was so bummed I had to get rid of the 84 because it had a dropped suspension kit that would of made my 83 look great but selling the house and showing, the car looked bad. It was a nice brown with gold pin strip, factory, great look in its day. I try to do my own work when I can but sometimes I pay if the price is right. I will do my own interior but it is advised to let the professionals do you headliner when you have the sunroof if you want your sunroof to slide and lock like the factory had it. I want to do my body work which is so minor. It is my project car but some things I will have done. My engine rebuild will be done by someone else who knows intercoolers. I think it is great others seek the eighties 900 out or even the early 90's. Good luck on finding that Saab 900 or doing your own work. When I started working on mine to get it road worthy, those in my Saab club told me you have to do your own work because of the cost of parts and labor. As far as the dealers go, they don't seem to be use of the early Saabs and the dealerships are going away. I do think it would be very cool to have a 2009 9-3 turbo X and my 83 900 totally restored. What a pair of cars to won. Mike