Service and Warranty Reference Library
Date: 04/26/01
To: All Saab Dealers
Saab Service Manager
From: Rich Miller
Code: 211
Reference: External cylinder head gasket leakage, M99- 9-3 and 9-5 models with 4 cylinder engine
To address an external oil or coolant leak from the cylinder head gasket when no engine overheating or other running complaints have occurred, it is only necessary to retorque the cylinder head bolts. Cylinder head removal and gasket replacement is not necessary in most cases.
When this condition is found, follow the procedure outlined below. Do the complete procedure on each head bolt, ONE AT A TIME, before moving to the next bolt.
Note: Engine must be cold when retorquing. Saab recommends the engine be allowed to completely cool. Please endeavor to schedule this work in such a manner that it does not inconvenience the customer by keeping the car overnight.
If any bolt does not tighten completely, that bolt must be replaced with a new bolt.
1. Unplug the connector and remove the ignition discharge module and spark plugs. Undo the crankcase breather pipe on the camshaft cover and remove the nipple for crankcase ventilation and vacuum from the camshaft cover. Remove the camshaft cover.
2. Loosen one bolt.
3. Tighten to 60 Nm (44 ft.lb.).
4. Tighten a further 90 degrees.
5. Repeat for all bolts in sequence pictured below.
6. Check and top off coolant or oil as needed.
7. Reinstall cam cover, run engine and perform a visual inpsection for leaks.
To resolve a customer complaint for a vehicle in warranty, submit a claim using the following information:
Failed object: 21119
Fault/reason code: 78
Location code: 5
Warranty type: 01
Repair/Action code: 05
Labor operation: Straight time
Time: 9-5 0.5 hr., 9-3 0.4 hr.
Thank you for your attention.
Sincerely,
Rich Miller
Manager,
Technical Services Quality
Abe Buchbinder
Director, Service & Parts
Saab Cars USA, Inc.
Please direct questions concerning this document to: the Saab Technical Assistance
Center at 1-800-7*****
Saab Dealer Assistance Center @ 1-800-********, prompt # 1
Saab Cars USA, Inc. bulletins are intended for use by professional Saab technicians only, NOT a do-it-yourselfer. They are designed to inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Saab trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle or that your vehicle will have the condition. See your authorized Saab dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information. © 2001 Saab Cars USA, Inc.