oil return line o-ring

[philbert]

Anyone know the size of the o-ring that goes between the oil return line and the block for my 87T. Mine's leaking quite a bit and I'd rather go down to the local parts store and get one than wait to get one shipped to me from one of the sponsors.

I'd take my old one in for comparison, but it's in rather sad shape.

[cdaly]

In that situation, I'd figure out some idea of the diameter of the pipe. Then I'd go and buy a bunch of o-rings around that size. Say, two either side of the size and two different thicknesses. There's bound to be one that suits in that lot...

[philbert]

That's what it looks as if I'm going to have to do. Now, how does the o-ring fit? Is it on the outside of the pipe? Does it fit inside the block and the pipe fits tight against it? I can't find a diagram that shows how this is assembled.

[Matthew]

In theory you slide the o-ring over the end of the pipe and then push the pipe into the block. However you might find it easier to put the o-ring into the block's fitting and then push in the pipe. Just be careful that the o-ring doesn't drop into the block

Be warned - this is one of the most nuisance and frustrating jobs on a 900. It looks simple, but much effort is required to stuff pipe and o-ring into the block.

You might get a better angle of attack by working from underneath the car.

[jefspg]

I have found that by loosening the 4 big bolts holding the turbo onto the exhaust manifold, you can push the pipe into the block much easier.

Once I get the pipe in about 1/2 way, I then tighten down the 4 bolts and then use a small hammer to help push the tube all the way in.

[philbert]

I did a headgasket on this car and after getting all buttoned up, I realized I didn't get the return tube back in. Of course I didn't realize this until I had a pretty good sized oil puddle under the car. I was able to work it back in by just removing the two bolts where it attaches to the turbo. Unfortunately, I must have bunged up the o-ring because now it's leaking again, about a pint a day.

It still would be nice if someone knew the diameter of the o-ring however....

[Matthew]

You could just order a replacement o-ring from the Saab dealer. Guaranteed to be the right size, quick and not expensive.

[philbert]

I ended up taking the return line off the car, taking it in to the local auto parts store and matching it up with one off the shelf. As I already knew, reinstalling the line was going to be a bugger, and it didn't disappoint me. I was able to put it back in without loosening up the turbo from the manifold. It did take a bit of grunting and choice words, but it did pop back in. Now I have no more oil leaks...at least for now?!?