I think this summer will be the "summer of bodywork".


I'm not modding the engine anymore, so it's time to make things pretty(er), and remove what little rust I have.

Summer of bodywork:

-whaletail
-shaved antenna (perhaps a fuba/sharkfin/viggen on roof?)
-New grillE mod
-clear corners


Lower it ;)

So you're keeping your '86 900T Blue Beast?

Pending spousal approval, yes.


It's about 75% right now.


In a few days, I will have enough $$$ to "pre pay" for a summers worth of 9-3 car payments.

That will help things.

Keep that c900 at all costs. It's an exceptional example.

sharkfin*vomit*elkparts

*vomit*

Meh, it's got 16" aero wheels already, may as well go all out ;)

Meh, it's got 16" aero wheels already, may as well go all out ;)You are wrong ser, aero wheels have a distinctive 80s saab "vintage" appeal, which would clash with the more modern shark fin look. To match the fin, he'd have to get some new looking wheels that are the largest that could possibly fit in the wheel well, for that's what all the kids are doing these days. Maybe he could do some other cosmetic mods, too, to update the look. Maybe a full debadge, a decor panel, a lens tint, who knows, maybe even some underhood stuff like a modern looking valve cover. Yeah, that would do nicely.

You are wrong ser, aero wheels have a distinctive 80s saab "vintage" appeal, which would clash with the more modern shark fin look. To match the fin, he'd have to get some new looking wheels that are the largest that could possibly fit in the wheel well, for that's what all the kids are doing these days. Maybe he could do some other cosmetic mods, too, to update the look. Maybe a full debadge, a decor panel, a lens tint, who knows, maybe even some underhood stuff like a modern looking valve cover. Yeah, that would do nicely.

LOL.

I gotta get rid of that @#$#% valve cover. First, it's foolishness, and secondly, I don't want people to think "Oh, it's just a viggen. Those only have 230hp."
:p

LOL.

I gotta get rid of that @#$#% valve cover. First, it's foolishness, and secondly, I don't want people to think "Oh, it's just a viggen. Those only have 230hp."
:pWhat, I thought you were gonna custumize it with ceramic coating? You know, to make all the civic kids jellus?

Well I really like what palmer did with the valve cover for his vectra. I'm still up in the air. Screw performance stuff, I need to focus on lookz.

Well I really like what palmer did with the valve cover for his vectra. I'm still up in the air. Screw performance stuff, I need to focus on lookz.Yeah, that was a nice touch. But seriously, if you want a viggen that badly, just buy one! ;)

I'm thinking about it. Perhaps next year I'll sell the SPG and pick up a viggenz... I'll probably make money on the deal, right? Right?

You guys are pranksters.

For the record:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/1999%209-3%20pictures/Valvecover003.jpg

Cosmetically, I do not have much planned.

Maybe I'll attach the last SPG panel, and finally paint the last wheel.

If I get really ambitious, I'll re-finish the SPG bits.

holy crap I can't believe it's still in your possesion Palmer, if you sell it buddy pleeeeeeeeease let me know, since I've got to the states all I've done is lust after another T16, and your car is such a great example

I miss my old car so much:
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f223/k-900/t16s-1.jpg


By the way I'm here now everybody, in Virginia :D , so once I get a c900 I need to meet some of the local enthusiasts :cool:


Kenny.

Where in VA, K-900?

There's a good group of saabers up in northern VA, and a few others scattered about the state.

Where in VA, K-900?

There's a good group of saabers up in northern VA, and a few others scattered about the state.

I'm a few miles north of Gloucester, so a few hours away from you!
I need a car badly!!!!

Kenny.

I'm going to copy someone:

http://www.datazap.net/sites/Svensk_exports_images/92_900T/100_4524.jpg

Imitation and flattery and all that to RM. I love your car.


That looks sweet, and polsihed lips are played IMHO. I just love the contrast of the nice bright body color, and the dark underside.


Also, My fingers start to sympathy bleed just thinking about polishing that last lip on one of my wheels.

There will be a special "palmer twist" of course. :cheesy:

a palmer twist? oh, he's back for sure!


Definitely also copy his blacked out chrome bumper trims. And whaletail. :cheesy:

PS I can get you a whaletail for cheap if you wish, it's a replica tho. PM me.

PM sent.


I can't wait for spring.

holy crap I can't believe it's still in your possesion Palmer, if you sell it buddy pleeeeeeeeease let me know, since I've got to the states all I've done is lust after another T16, and your car is such a great example

I miss my old car so much:
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f223/k-900/t16s-1.jpg


By the way I'm here now everybody, in Virginia :D , so once I get a c900 I need to meet some of the local enthusiasts :cool:


Kenny.


That is like my top fav 900. Just unreal, sick dude!

That is like my top fav 900. Just unreal, sick dude!


Rub it in dude! I miss that car so badly... I was thinking (if palmer doesn't want to sell his ;) ;) ) of trying to get hold of a straight T16/SPG in need of paint, then have it finnished in platana gray. try to get hold of some 16" cross spokes, or possibly have to go the BBS way, because I've never seen a car this side of the pond with the saab cross's in 16 trim.

Anyway, back on topic, Joe is there a good supply of these imitation whales? I'd be interested when I get myself in another 3door :cool:

Anyway, back on topic, Joe is there a good supply of these imitation whales? I'd be interested when I get myself in another 3door :cool:

Yep. speedparts

Yep.

:cheesy:

(words for free)

Rub it in dude! I miss that car so badly... I was thinking (if palmer doesn't want to sell his ;) ;) ) of trying to get hold of a straight T16/SPG in need of paint, then have it finnished in platana gray. try to get hold of some 16" cross spokes, or possibly have to go the BBS way, because I've never seen a car this side of the pond with the saab cross's in 16 trim.

Anyway, back on topic, Joe is there a good supply of these imitation whales? I'd be interested when I get myself in another 3door :cool:

More info on these cross-spoke wheels?

More info on these cross-spoke wheels?

In the US, came on 1992 9000 "Griffin" edition models. 16x6.5. 4x108. More available in non-US markets.

http://jpowell.tripod.com/saab-wheels/index.html#crossspoke

Here's a pic of Vince T's SPG on crossspokes:
http://members.shaw.ca/saaboteur/spg/exterior/spg-winterside.jpg

http://jpowell.tripod.com/saab-wheels/9000/saab-alloy-9000-cross_spoke-6.5x15.jpg

Am serios painter.

Before:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/SPG-refinish001.jpg
Wetsanded:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/SPG-refinish002.jpg

Thin primer and adhseion promoter coat:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/SPG-refinish003.jpg


Tonight brings wetsanding, and color.

More pictures then.

lol @ bad cat spray bottle.

It dispenses liquid justice on the felines when they get unruly.


It also works well for wetsanding.

Done:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/SPG-refinish004.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/SPG-refinish005.jpg


I learned a few things...

The section of the panel that got none of the wetsanding or anything looks the best.

I'm going to re-do this one with no sanding, and see where I'm at. I rushed it a bit, so the color is a bit un-even. The gloss is there, but it looks kinda lousy in decent light.

I'm also out of paint.



But I'm happy with how it came out! It looks much better than it did.

Quite the artist. A real Renaissance man. ;)

In the US, came on 1992 9000 "Griffin" edition models. 16x6.5. 4x108. More available in non-US markets.

http://jpowell.tripod.com/saab-wheels/index.html#crossspoke

Here's a pic of Vince T's SPG on crossspokes:




it should also be noted that the 16" version seems to have been optional, there was a 15" version that is much much more common (and doesnt look as good) I've personally seen at least 3 different griffins in the junkyard (probably more) all with 15's on em.

Paul

I has sprayer:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/Sprayer002.jpg

Now I need a compressor. I'm getting one free from my co-worker.
:)

it should also be noted that the 16" version seems to have been optional, there was a 15" version that is much much more common (and doesnt look as good) I've personally seen at least 3 different griffins in the junkyard (probably more) all with 15's on em.

Paul


yup. nearly all have 15inch wheels IME. pointless.

Gee, that's some good info.



Seeing as how I don't have set of these, nor do I plan to buy any, ever, maybe we could start another thread about it, mkay?

I dunno... threadjacking right here seems like more fun.



Back on topic, what size nozzle did you get for your gun? I recommend getting a couple different sizes to try out.

I think he got a 1.4 with it, he could check to be sure.

I wonder if they sell just nozzles for this brand, I would assume so, but I saw none on the shelf.

I have a parts list. Several sizes are avalable.


We'll see how this one works for now.

I think I use a 1.4 on my guns, its nice to have a few different tips, but I have not had an issue with just using one for all.

If I start painting on a more regular basis I think I will relagate one of my guns to primer only duty, and buy another one for clear.

It makes cleaning before after spraying color and before doing clear much less of a rush.

Unless I decide to use a 3M PPS system...naw, my guns and paint jobs aren't nice enough for that :) It sure makes clean-up a lot easier though!

Just a small update...


I drove it to work all last week, and had a ball.

It took me about 10 miles to re-learn the "C900 clutch dance" but when I got it figured out, it was great.

I also have a power steering leak. I'm ignoring it.

It should be nice tomorrow, I'll maybe snap some pictures of the vauxhall, and the c900 together, just to annoy you guys.

"It took me about 10 miles to re-learn the "C900 clutch dance" but when I got it figured out, it was great."

OK I'll bite - what is the "C900 Clutch Dance"

Is that the one where your leg involuntarily twitches from the excessive effort required to keep the clutch depressed in traffic? :p

^that, and the whole "ok now, double clutch into second-not too fast!, gas, depress clutch (wow that redline came up fast) double clutch into 3rd slowly, gas (wooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!) double clutch into 4th, gas, cop, clutch in, coast, and sloooooooooooooooooooooooooooowly push it into first juuuuust as the car comes to a stop"


That whole thing.


You know.

lol, you need straight cut gears so you can slam from one gear to the next and bypass the clutch entirely! :p

I did a bit of clutchless shifting on my old carbed 900, pretty easy to do and makes for very quick gearchanges, but probably very punishing on the gearbox! I only did it cos the car was a knacker!! :roll:

the car looks amazing, how much for custom headers? would u ever make for someone?

the car looks amazing, how much for custom headers? would u ever make for someone?


Thanks, lots, and no.

:)


I bought them, I did not make them.

Then I sold them to "buy" the car from my wife.

where did u buy the headers is ther like a website or something?

where did u buy the headers is ther like a website or something?

He bought them from a local person who made them for him, and I don't think he would recommend that individual to anyone.

Is that a Russian Blue?

(the cat, that is :) )


I has sprayer:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/Sprayer002.jpg

Now I need a compressor. I'm getting one free from my co-worker.
:)

That cat is a cross between a Maine Coon, and an American Shorthair.

You are not the first person to say that he looks like a Russain though...

Every ricer in town has dark wheels with a polished lip.

Time for the lip to go bye-bye.
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/wheelre-paint001.jpg

I just need one small bottle of paint.

:)

:o i like the all-over gunmetal finish! :D

One more small step.

colormatched blue lips?

Or pink?

http://www.wyomingtalesandtrails.com/garnetts.jpg


Free Letters

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/wheelre-paint002.jpg

Once the clear cures up, it's time for a light wetsand, and some rubbing compound.

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/wheelre-paint003.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/wheelre-paint004.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/wheelre-paint005.jpg

I re-painted the flares, and only one came out right. I got real bad fisheye on the final coat for some reason. The 2 coats of primer went on just fine, and the color coat. It was weird. Anyway, that's the color I'm going to paint the SPG kit as well. It should look pretty nice when it's done.

Hmm... not sure yet, need a full-car shot.

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/wheelre-paint004.jpg

<rubs eyes>
It's been a long day, but...

YOU PAINTED THE TYRES? To match the aero kit?

That pic really does make the tyres look like they've been colour-matched to the tupperware.

^lol.


Yep.


Next I paint the braking surface of my rotors, and the windsheild to match.

^lol.


Yep.


Next I paint the braking surface of my rotors, and the windsheild to match.

You FAIL. You forgot to paint the tread.

You FAIL.
http://www.catwack.com/pics/125.jpg
i couldn't help myself.

orange stripe, not so much for me, but i'd want to see a full car shot when it's all done. oh the lovely optical illusions that tire black does!

Whoops, forgot the full car picture.

It was a bit bright...

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/wheelre-paint007.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/wheelre-paint008.jpg


The GrillE, and headlight surrounds will be the same color as the wheels soon too. It should look splendid.

Oh, and I got this too:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/steeringwheel.jpg

F****** rock.

seeing it from further back, i do like it now. the entire spg kit in that color though? that's a color combination that scares me.

seeing it from further back, i do like it now. the entire spg kit in that color though? that's a color combination that scares me.


Slightly darker, more mettalic grey?


Sounds like a winner to me.

oh the grey? then yes, i like the idea! i thought you mean you were going to paint the SPG kit orange! :o

Is that a Russian Blue?

Looks very like a british blue if you ask me. We have one living across the road from us and he spends a lot of time in our house and we wanted to identify the breed and decided it was a british blue.

Our cat is a maine coon. One of their features is their size. You can also recognise them by their bushy tail. Our George is only 1 year old in this photo, not fully grown at this stage. But you get the idea.

http://www.red-green.co.uk/web/photos/saabpics/feline_assistance_004.JPG

http://www.red-green.co.uk/web/photos/saabpics/cat_nav.jpg

By the way - the car's looking great!

Good lord, look at the size of the paws on the beast. My cat was supposed to be that large, but a cyst and an infection stunted his growth. That's ok though, his personality is big enough.

As for the car...

I did another wheel last night, and one side of the SPG kit. Sill needs a coat of clear, but I think it came out pretty good:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/SPGpanels001.jpg
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/SPGpanels002.jpg

I plan to wetsand the clear a tiny bit, and get some rubbing compound on it.


I hope to have it back on this evening, and snap a few pictures.

here's the neighbours cat. The 'British Blue' - he turned up in our garage while I was taking photos of Saab stuff and I just got a photo of him looking up the same way. This one's a bit old and shabby.

http://www.red-green.co.uk/web/photos/saabpics/british_blue.jpg

The cat to car ratio in this thread makes me happy.

:)

Cleared, installed:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/SPGpanelsdone001.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/SPGpanelsdone003.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/SPGpanelsdone005.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/SPGpanelsdone004.jpg

I'm happy with how things came out.

Damn Palmer, that's hot.

just need to sorth those front lights out now.....;)

G

How so?



I bought all of the paint the store had. :lol:

They will be out for a while. I have some bondo to do on the grillE, and I will tape and prep the surrounds tonight...

justh that ive never been a massive fan of the funny headlights you guys got
como esto
http://www.saabcentral.com/phpgallery/albums/Gs-little-Saab/Red_Bull_Airflow.sized.jpg

Oh, the "euro" lights...



I would like to get those, but the damn intercooler is too big. :cheesy:

Oh well.

Oh, the "euro" lights...

Well, the "Absolutely everywhere on the face of the planet apart from one country" lights, yep.

Well, the "Absolutely everywhere on the face of the planet apart from one country" lights, yep.


"euro" has 30 less letters.


If anyone wants to trade, I would be game...

i just read the entire 17 pages in one sitting, amazing stuff, car look amazing, im looking to get a c900 hopefully an SPG, how does the car handle with the suspensions upgrades?

Hey palmer, ever considered trying to "fake" the Euro lights?

Paint the headlight surrounds the brightest most chrome like silver you can, and then fit some perspex headlight protectors over the front to make it look like a single light unit?

i just read the entire 17 pages in one sitting, amazing stuff, car look amazing, im looking to get a c900 hopefully an SPG, how does the car handle with the suspensions upgrades?


Quite well!


I still have the stock struts, and I should probably get new ones...

Turn in is tons better than my 9-3 (that has the koni kit) and it just plain feels better in corners. Plus it's looooow.

:)

As for the lenses, that's kind of a cool idea. I may have to think about that.

I really do like the look of the flatfront though...

On more quick question, are you going to track your c900 or do any autox events? i want to start autox soon and the 9k is a bit to heavy and wobbly to that, oo by the way i love your mesh grill, what did you use to attach it to the grill?

:)
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/racedrini.jpg

The way my grill is et up, you can use the 23 halves to hold the mesh in.

It has since been removed.

Thats an awesome picture! thanks for the help as well, i think i really want a c900 now

Thanks for putting all of this info up for us, Palmer. A great read and now I'm motivated.

What ever happened with the seats though? I've always wondered how people got those aero seats in.

Ahh, the seats.



I put one in, and took it out a week later, and sold the set.


The seats were too big, and without some pretty solid fab work i would not have been happy with the mounting as far as safety goes.


I have the newer front seat mounting rail, and the e-brake setup, I just have not put them in.


I'm not worried about it for now. This summer is for terminating rust.

And painting things.

you have any more photos of you on the track??

How about video?

:)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OV6gdKrNmTk


Another:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=3329049160237426738

Airflow covers, and fender flares painted to match wheels, and SPG kit:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/C900onesidedone004.jpg
I also added a stripe on the side vent to match the wheels.

Side profile:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/C900onesidedone001.jpg

One side is ALMOST done, holy crap.

I'm also working on the grillE, and it's my first foray into bondo. Woo!

My god, That SPG makes me speechless:o
Now if it only had the euro headlights, it would be Pefrect:)

I like the US headlights on that car, it looks like a wierdo euro car. It's awesome.

Someome mentioned something to me about driving lights, and I'm going to do it.

Its going to be sweeeeeeeet.

Wot no whaletail? :p

The whaletail will be next year/over the winter I think...

I'm too stoked about this light idea to do anything else right now.

Finished my grillE:

Removed center emblem, slats, and got rid of the seam in between the 2 halves...

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/glle900001.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/glle900005.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/glle900003.jpg

I also painted the headlight surrounds to match.

Here is what is going to match when I am done...

Wheels
SPG kit
Air dam
vent covers
grillE
Headlight surrounds

Are you going to put any protectve mesh in Palmer?
I ran without mesh for a day on mine and at motorway speeds managed to pick up quite a bit of debris in my rad/FMIC.

G

I have had the grillE open like that for over a year now, and have not had any issues.

Ok,
Was just wondering.
Maybe the UK road surfaces make the problem of Debris worse.

G

damn you t16 looks sweet palmer.. wish I could afford to run a 9-3 and a c900 :lol:

...one day..

How much did the viggen set you back? Sure you couldn't have afforded a mint c900, a gm900 + maintainence for the same amount of cash?

How much did the viggen set you back? Sure you couldn't have afforded a mint c900, a gm900 + maintainence for the same amount of cash?

it set me back enough ($10,000) I couldn't find the right c900: 3-door, 5-speed, & turbo. the ones I did find were in bad shape or really over priced.. that and too far away :x

I'll be back with a shell and A/Rwd plans in a couple years hopefully.. that seems a long time away from now though.. I guess for now I'll get my fix by drooling over all of the beautiful T16's in these threads.. Palmers being one of my faves because of the stubnose with aero 16's and spg kit

ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh I WANT ONE!!!

Just a quick update...


It's been a fun summer!

I put a new ECU in, and it's been running great.

No real issues to report...


I also secured free heated storage for the salty winter months. I'm pretty happy about that!

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/1999%209-3%20pictures/eurowerks2008001.jpg

the c900 is sweet palmer, i love the color, that grey color goes great with the blue,

As many have said before me, that is one fantastic looking 900 Palmer... the colour choice is bang on, the tint is nice, flat nose front and ofcourse the Super Aero's. Why isnt there a car on the market built like our beloved C900's?

(Grabs can of worm from the fridge and opens it wide open....):cool:

The cat to car ratio in this thread makes me happy.

:)

Cleared, installed:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/SPGpanelsdone001.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/SPGpanelsdone003.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/SPGpanelsdone005.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/SPGpanelsdone004.jpg

I'm happy with how things came out.

I just put my car away in heated storage as well. Kind of a bummer, but I have another c900 to whip around the winter with.

I just put my car away in heated storage as well. Kind of a bummer, but I have another c900 to whip around the winter with.


I'd be lying if I said moving from Maine to Virginia wasn't at least partially prompted by the non existant winters and lack of salt and sand :cheesy:

Not too much new...


In order to ensure domestic tranquility, the 86 has been sleeping outside for the summer.

The paint has taken a bit of a beating as far as leaf stains and whatnot, so I decided to take over the garage, and get one good coat of the shiny on before winter storage.

Process:
Hand wash.
Hand wash again.
Detailing spray and clay bar
Before:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/C900shinyroof001.jpg

I started with 3m Perfect-it 2 rubbing compound:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/C900shinyroof003.jpg

Then I hit it with 3m cleaner wax.

Then I hit it with 3m performance finish.

The result:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/C900shinyroof004.jpg


That paint actually feels SOFT now. It's amazing.

Storage date is the 15th or so of November.

I'm going to drive it as much as I can before than.


It also needs a new clutch for some reason. :cheesy:

didn't the car have clutch problems a while back?

No, it had that C900 transmission problem we all know and love.

It was a perfect fall day today, so I made the most of my mediocre photo skills:

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/FallC900007.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/FallC900013.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/FallC900016.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/FallC900015.jpg

Last pic is the best. Looks awesome!!!


Put the GT30 in this car when you holset the GM. Do it.

Ha, the thought had crossed my mind...


That's a bad, bad idea.


A fun one, but a BAD idea.

I will make it my goal to peer pressure you into this.

So much effort, such a nice c900. I don't understand people who don't love these cars. (But there are a lot of them out there)

[/peer-pressure on] Say IJ... Don't you think every blue c900's out there with aero-kit and 16" aero-wheels should have a GT30 fitted to their car?
Also, if you where having one sitting in another car right now, you would be almost crazy if you didn't fit it to a blue aero-kitted c900...!!
[/peer-pressure off]

Nice pictures Palmer, like them a lot...!
Daniel.

I went to see my car today.

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/saabwinterhome.jpg

I brought it a fresh tarp, and some wax to clean up the water drips from the pipe right above it.

It's warm and happy. It sharing space with 5 corvettes, 3 porches, 3 M3's, 2 RS4's, a Chevy HHR, a caddy XLR, 1995 Impala SS, a 2004 9-4 aero, my grandmothers honda civic, and a few other random cars.

It looks a bit out of place, but it makes me happy. I sat in it for a second, and it still smells like a saab.

I miss summer.

Last daylight:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/lastdaylight.jpg


Plans for the spring include a new clutch, some body work, fresh paint on the SPG kit, and lots of miles. I'm going to drive the pants off this thing.

Once the salt is off the roads, the 9-3 is getting parked for a while. It was teasing me on the way to storage.

It drove PERFECTLY, and when I matted it in 4th, it just took off.

Man, I love this car.

Quit it.

My vert is miles away from me. Granted it is in a heated single garage in Worcester. Still, I can't just go pop in anytime.

So, I guess the roof drain pipe that runs along the ceiling RIGHT ABOVE MY CAR has been leaking a bit. It's not just over a corner of the car or anything, it's right down the middle of the spot, and runs the whole length of the car.

That's nice. I am envisioning hard water stains all over my roof and hood. I feel like a tool *****ing about this, I really do...but the paint on my roof and hood is almost flawless.

I have to go move it outside for a weekend now, and go wash it again.




You can imagine how thrilled I am, dammit.

To make myself feel better about the drippy pipe, I bought the fun end of a T5 wiring harness today.

awww thats nice you put the 86 to sleep for the winter. wrapped it up in blankets and everything

Good luck with teh T5 my SPG will go that route eventually when i get a working CPS fabbed up
JP

Great car. Love it.

Just wanted to find some things out concerning those SPG panels. As they are applied to a stock car- are there any additional hole drilled for rails (ones that hold SPG panels)?

Great car. Love it.

Just wanted to find some things out concerning those SPG panels. As they are applied to a stock car- are there any additional hole drilled for rails (ones that hold SPG panels)?

The holes have been on every classic 900 since the 1984 model year. The earlier cars did not have the holes. They are hidden under the 3" wide molding.

Jon
jon1..

Great car. Love it.

Just wanted to find some things out concerning those SPG panels. As they are applied to a stock car- are there any additional hole drilled for rails (ones that hold SPG panels)?


Thanks!


I also used 1/4" ford trim plugs to mount the rails that the kit slides onto. You have to file down one one side of them a little bit, but they work really well.

WOOO!!


She comes out of storage next weekend!

Right when she gets home, the SPG kit is coming off for a fresh coat of paint!

While that is going on, I'm going to buff the paint out.

WOOOOOHOOOOO the 86 is coming out for the summer..... put away that 9-3 beater you got there:)

WOOOOOHOOOOO the 86 is coming out for the summer..... put away that 9-3 beater you got there:)


Ha, don't worry. :cheesy:

I did a burnout in the GM today in 3rd gear from 40 to about 90mph today, and then I mentally parked it for the summer. It needs rear brakes, but I'm not going to stress about that.

Well, unless I need to haul brush to the compost site or something. :lol:

Palmer this is an amazing thread.
I have had my Saab (89' 900 turbo for 3 days)

I have found a ton of things on here that I want to try.

I had a couple questions for you if thats ok?

Palmer this is an amazing thread.
I have had my Saab (89' 900 turbo for 3 days)

I have found a ton of things on here that I want to try.

I had a couple questions for you if thats ok?



Ya man, PM me if you like.

I just re-read you entire thread.
PM sent.

I have a few noob questions for you.

y0 Palmer!

I figured I'd join up and check out your build since I am on the verge of owning one of these things.

19 pages was a long damn read.

y0 Palmer!

I figured I'd join up and check out your build since I am on the verge of owning one of these things.

19 pages was a long damn read.

n00b settings. "Only" 10 pages for me :lol:


Sorry! The administrator has specified that users can only post one message every 120 seconds.

2 minutes?! Christ! And it doesn't even keep out the pornspammers.

Out of my thread, n00berts. :cheesy:



I ordered a clutch and pressure plate today.


Woo.


...

Out of my thread, n00berts. :cheesy:



I ordered a clutch and pressure plate today.


Woo.


...
You splurged?! You ß嚆å®d!

I ordered a clutch and pressure plate today.

A bigger 9000 2.3t clutch or just an ordinary one again? :D

Out of my thread, n00berts. :cheesy:



I ordered a clutch and pressure plate today.


Woo.


...

Thats right, I am so n00bs I don't even have my Saab yet, but I can still bug you guys.

Just a stock PP, and disc.


I'm shooting for a 20% gain over stock, so I figure with a new PP, clutch disc, and machined flywheel, I should be good to go.


For some reason, I thought that a new PP was like 200 bucks, but it's only 70, so I kinda had to.


Should be fun.


Oh, and I romped on it a bit today (2 long pulls in 4th), and oil came out the dipstick.


Neat-o. I'm SO happy.


Stock boost here I come!


Oh, and Ctruss, you can bug me whenever you want, you big stud. :cheesy:

Oh, and I romped on it a bit today (2 long pulls in 4th), and oil came out the dipstick.


Neat-o. I'm SO happy.


Stock boost here I come!


That sounds like a bigger issue than just running higher than stock boost. Oil out the stick is not normal under any circumstance. Is the gasket around the ring of the cap good? I had one fail and occasionally oil would splash out. It wasn't being forced out, just a bit of seepage.

Either way, it would be a good idea to figure that out, since it could be indicative if more SRS BSNS issues.

Sounds like you need a new motor palmer. I've got one for ya :)

Sounds like you need a new motor palmer. I've got one for ya :)

Heynow...don't go barking up that tree!

It was kinda a splatter out of the dip stick on top on the intake manifold. I'll look around a bit when I get home. It was dark out when I was looking.

As for the boost comment, I meant I am turning it down even further to slow the possible destruction.

Thanks for the offer Amish. I may out bid JK. :P

Don't de-tune it you sally.If you can't handle your car I have a goped for you. Sounds like it is just your speed.... lol

hello Palmer, I have the same blue color on my 1983 saab 900 turbo with same interior with the exception of black on door panels. My saab is a driving project car with a very torn headliner, most missing, cracked dash, very minor body work but love the car and Saabs are very cool and unique. I had a 1972 99E which i would go to rally's and watch them race. I have the original B engine 140 horsepower but I do have 215,000 miles but still runs strong and handles very well. I will have my saab repainted the same stock color, those in my saab club and passerbys think the color is very european looking. I agree. Mike

Hey, good to hear!

Put some pictures up or something!

I have only seen one other saab in my color in person, and it was in ROUGH shape.

Was it mine:)

sounds like you may have cracked a piston? boosting into your crankcase?
but i doubt that!



Hey, good to hear!

Put some pictures up or something!

I have only seen one other saab in my color in person, and it was in ROUGH shape.

Well, even though it's been turned down a bit, it's still faster than a 1999 9-3 with a DP and a stage 2(?) tune.

My friend and I were messing about on the way back from a bicycle ride, and when he told me I was shocked.


I'm also shooting blue smoke out the exhaust and there is oil in the intake pipe, so that's fun.

Well, even though it's been turned down a bit, it's still faster than a 1999 9-3 with a DP and a stage 2(?) tune.

My friend and I were messing about on the way back from a bicycle ride, and when he told me I was shocked.


I'm also shooting blue smoke out the exhaust and there is oil in the intake pipe, so that's fun.

Yes, at highway speeds from around 50-70 or so the acceleration rate is greater on the c900 than on my "slightyly less than stage 3" autotragic 9-3. It was fairly even, but the c900 certianlty had the edge.

The turbo is old and tired on the 9-3 anyway. I think the little TD04 sitting on my trubo pile will help just a little bit.

Just discovered my drivers door is cracked by the window frame which is common for early 80's 900's. So now I would like to find a drivers door close to the color which my door also has a slight crease and maybe I will find one with a good window motor too. I was told of a nice place in idaho near Boise that has many 900's sitting around where I may find that cool european blue color I have. I have not seen a Saab like my color yet. I have a dark blue paint with white saab badges with a gold or bronze tinge on the top of the emblems. Very cool I think and all factory. Some badges or saab emblems are just a aluminum. THe smart thing saab did is make the door panels fit the entire door so you don't need to worry about the inner color of the door. Mike

I'm also shooting blue smoke out the exhaust and there is oil in the intake pipe, so that's fun.

Do you have a catch can? I installed one and have had zero problems, no oil in any pipes. Haven't looked back.

I have only seen one other saab in my color in person, and it was in ROUGH shape.

I told you that I owned two in this color, right? First one was a 1987 900S and one side was pristine, the other side was rotted to hell. This was the car I found the $200 stashed behind the cubby in the center console. I wish I would have cut the fenders and 1/4s off and removed the door from the passenger's side. It was eerie how clean the one side was and how rotten the other was!

The second was a 1989 900S that was rough looking but solid, it was $25 and it ended up being used for parts on a $25 1990 900S. My buddy any I split the cost of those cars and I just took some parts and let him have the fun with making one good car out of two rats.

I know my buddy Dave in Duluth has had a few 1988/1989 4 doors in the same blue as well. I don't think it's really that rare of a color, but certainly less common than silver, red, and black.

I know this isn't like a real rare color but as I try to find body parts that match such as a drivers door, rare enough that you never see that color in the wrecking yards. I will find the part I need somewhere that isn't cracked around the window frame. Mike

I have peen driving the pee-pee out of this thing this summer! It's been GREAT!

I had it a car show last weekend, see if you can spot it:
http://www.stanceworks.com/?p=300

The ratty hood is a joke, mostly to make fun of the VW guys.

oww... some truely awful cars on that link you posted. Might look a bit cool having only a mm of clearance between the tyre and the wheelarch... but you can't really drive those cars which look like that. They're mostly slow and just done for looks.

Saw the car next to yours as well. Many multi-colour pannels. :roll:

Most of those cars have airbag suspension setups, and can raise up a bit to drive.

Kinda neat, yet kinda useless at the same time.

Question is - did any of them get the joke?

I've never understood the Rat look, especially when it's been forced and not occurred 'naturally'.

What does the CIS frequency valve do located in the drivers fender area and the fuel pump relay, can these parts fail and cause the fuel pump to to fail at times or cause fuel problems to come and go. It appears my 83 900 has these parts and can be original but not sure. Mike

I have no idea. Sorry.

Question is - did any of them get the joke?

I've never understood the Rat look, especially when it's been forced and not occurred 'naturally'.

lol, no.

One guy said "it must be a saab thing".

My hood was "natural"...still ugly though.

Minor update...

I drove the 86 with no issues through the summer.

I sold my 350whp 9-3 because it was dumb, and bought a miata as a DD.


Here it is:

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/Miata/BeachandTeethremoval008.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/Miata/Miatadetail036.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/Miata/Miatadetail037.jpg


Put a header on it with help from the wife:

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/Miata/InstallHeader003.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/Miata/InstallHeader007.jpg


Anyway, it's super fun.


The 86 is in heated storage for the season. I had way to much fun driving it out there too. I think I redlined 4th about 4 times. I also crushed a guy in a caddy CTS.

There may have been a 5 series BMW that was "dealt with" as well. Plans for next summer...

-minor rust repair
-some interior bits
-enjoy a car with torque


I honestly think I'm done with the mods. I like it the way it is. Solid, reliable, and fast. I estimate about 200whp/230wtq based on where it was, and where it is now.


Also, RWD is stupid fun. If you have the means, I highly suggest it. :)

Nice moose knuckle.

http://www.stanceworks.com/Pictures/Eurowerks2009/32.jpg

Bleedin heck didn't know they made tyres that low profile

That's my favorite shape 911... but that one's been ruined. :lol:

Ricer spoiler, ricer wheels... front vallance is quite neat... but the standard one's alright as well.

to start with i think i saw your car at the myth night club for a concert one time i could be wrong.. but its a very nice car man looks awsome.. question did you cut the black fins out of the grill? or did you just pry them out? i painted mine black but want it to have metal mesh behind ithttp://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/MESHEXz017-1.jpg

Just read your WHOLE thread, and I must say your car is INCREDIBLE Palmer. Good work, now to get my fully rebuilt C900 running....

Also, RWD is stupid fun. If you have the means, I highly suggest it. :)

Best Build Thread Ever plus a "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" quote...

to start with i think i saw your car at the myth night club for a concert one time i could be wrong.. but its a very nice car man looks awsome.. question did you cut the black fins out of the grill? or did you just pry them out? i painted mine black but want it to have metal mesh behind it
The grille is in two pieces, which are easily separable if you just take the time to punch the center-pins out of the 9 plastic rivets holding it in. Even the rivets can be reused! You also have to remove the SAAB symbol, using some patience and a screwdriver to pry off the push-nuts behind it. I know that this two-piece grille design is a feature of '85 and '86 models. Before that, they had one-piece grilles that required extensive masking to paint properly. After that is slope front and does not concern me. The problem is that the top of the grille frame is attached to the radiator support, and the bottom part of the grille fins insert is attached to the lower grille. Zip ties could be used with the omission of the inner part in favor of mesh, though I'd think that maybe sandwiching mesh between inner and outer parts of the grille would produce the best shape.

Just read your WHOLE thread, and I must say your car is INCREDIBLE Palmer. Good work, now to get my fully rebuilt C900 running....

Hey, thanks a ton. Good luck with your project!

Best Build Thread Ever plus a "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" quote...

:)



to start with i think i saw your car at the myth night club for a concert one time i could be wrong.. but its a very nice car man looks awsome.. question did you cut the black fins out of the grill? or did you just pry them out? i painted mine black but want it to have metal mesh behind it

Holy crap, that was in 2007 maybe? I was there to see Streetlight Manifesto. Man, that was about 6 hours of Ska for $20.

On the first version of the grillE, I just stuck mesh in between the two halves.

The grille is in two pieces, which are easily separable if you just take the time to punch the center-pins out of the 9 plastic rivets holding it in. Even the rivets can be reused! You also have to remove the SAAB symbol, using some patience and a screwdriver to pry off the push-nuts behind it. I know that this two-piece grille design is a feature of '85 and '86 models. Before that, they had one-piece grilles that required extensive masking to paint properly. After that is slope front and does not concern me. The problem is that the top of the grille frame is attached to the radiator support, and the bottom part of the grille fins insert is attached to the lower grille. Zip ties could be used with the omission of the inner part in favor of mesh, though I'd think that maybe sandwiching mesh between inner and outer parts of the grille would produce the best shape.


Or, what he said.

I stuck a new FPR in my the 86 tonight trying to track down an issue.

Holy. Crap.


I left it in 4th for about 10 miles, and just kept flooring it. So so, awesome.

Wow just read this whole thread in one long go. Really really nice job Palmer, really make me want to start my own c900 project, after having one in our family while growing up ... hmmm this thread gives me bad ideas :evil:. Question though I am dying to see if you ever got the Headlight mod finished, or still thinking about doing it ? I think it would be a really cool 'finishing' touch to your car.

Well, it's been a while...

I have had a couple of new cars come through, so those have been taking up my time.

My new daily:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/2002%20WRX/P1050054.jpg
2002 WRX wagon. 3" DP, intake, Road ECU tune, STI springs, Tokio shocks, and a roof rack. I have wanted a WRX since they came out, and now I have one. AWD is pretty much the ****, and it's been a great car.
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/SNOWMAGEDDON2010014.jpg
I have a set of winter tires for it, and can laugh at snow. It's served me well with my 50 mile daily commute, and it hauls all my bike gear very well.

My wifes new car:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/photo5-1.jpg
2003 E46 330i. It's pretty damn nice, and the engine sounds outstanding. Probably the best thought-out car I have ever owned. Fast, smooth, easy on gas, and the perfect size. Just awesome.

Anyway, enough about these cars. I have spent the last year or so getting them all set, to free up some garage time.

I picked up the 86 from storage last weekend. We broke up for a while last summer, but now we had a talk and things are looking better.

I stored this car last summer in a rage, after not being able to track down a random charging/no start/battery drain thing.

I still don't know what it is, but I'm going to figure it out if it kills me. The tested the battery tonight, and it's fine, it just needs a charge. This weekend I hope to pull the alternator and get it tested as well.

Here is how it looks now:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/photo19.jpg


List for the summer:
-test/replace alternator DONE
-tweak IC fitment DONE
-replace wheel bearing
-install battery tray from 9000 (started this already) DONE
-touch up radiator support DONE
-clutch (not needed)
-clean grounds DONE
-re-install center console DONE
-boost gauge
-set base boost
-re-fit/re-paint SPG kit/wheels/plasti-dip
-stop the damn louvers from rattling DONE
-satin black the louvers, fix plastic fade
-whaletail
-tweak airdam fit DONE
-adjust front bumper DONE
-paint valve cover
-fix heater controls
-repair washer jets
-wrap downpipe
-tweak exhaust fitment DONE
-attend to small rust spots
-re-paint wiper arms
-dye plastic trim (maybe plastidip)


Work in progress pictures:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/photo20-1.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/photo19-1.jpg

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/230023_10150165918061594_613406593_6577138_3382066 _n.jpg

Re-mounted the front plastic with new hardware, and some cutting. Sits very nice now:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/FACE.png

I'm also going to install this grillE:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/photo20.jpg

Oh, and I got new wheels:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a165/palmer80/C900forsale/photo20-1.jpg

Oh, and the dead battery issue was the damn battery charger. The same charger I have had for 10 years crapped out, and I was none the wiser.

I an now confident that the grounds, leads, and everything in the engine bay related to charging the battery is in fine shape. Ugh.

Sounds like you got your work cut-out on that one. Nice little list of jobs to do. :lol:

The good thing is though, that the cars are so much fun to own when modified and in good clean condition.

Used to have a Subaru Forrester but the rear diff was droning, the auto gearbox was getting snappy and one of the headgaskets was beginning to fail. If you left it standing for a few days getting it started was really difficult. Cranking for maybe 1 minute and then bad running for the next 2 minutes.

They are great in the snow. It was the only car still moving when everything else was stuck last winter. I couldn't even get anywhere in any of my Saab's. However, lots of road salt ate through the rear silencer and that developed a massive hole along the seam. I decided it would be better to sell the car than to try and keep it with all the problems it had. So I took off the rear exhaust section, covered it in exhaust paste, cut out a large piece of aluminum sheet, smeared the back of that with paste as well and then rivited the sheet to the side of the exhaust silencer. Painted it matt black and popped it back on the car. A cheap solution. Will last a couple of years.

I advertised the Forrester for sale and the phone never stopped ringing. For some strange reason people really want these cars. It sold straight away.

I just completed the marathon of reading this entire build, and man was it worth it!
Fantastic work palmer, and keep at it!

Palmer sold the car and has moved on.

http://www.saablink.net/forum/other-pictures/58323.htm

The new owner is a Saab guy for sure.

I'll let him know about this thread, maybe he will keep adding to it.

:)