Looking to replace an engine mount on your 9-5? If you’re not a professional Saab mechanic in Cincinnati that already knows the engine like the back of your hand, there are few resources on the web that will walk you through it. Luckily, the folks at SaabWorld have a brief, step by step guide to get you through the process of replacing the engine mount—specifically on the 1999 9-5 SE. It’s not an impossible job if you don’t want to take it to your local Saab repair shop. They do recommend blocking off at least 2 to 3 hours and grabbing a buddy to help get her done.
The process does take a few tools. You’ll need:
- A ratcheting socket wrench with multiple extensions
- A magnetic pickup tool
- A hydraulic jack to lift up the engine
- And ramps to lift up the front of the car
Always start with a cold engine, as your face and the engine will practically be dancing cheek to cheek for this repair job.
The Main Trick: Removing the Screws for This Saab Repair Job
Before you can replace the rear engine mount, you have to loosen a few screws. First of all, the front torque rod mount will have to be loosened before you can lift your Saab’s engine. Luckily, these first two screws sit at the front of the engine compartment within easy reach. The other one in the back takes a lot more input and ratchet extensions to get to. Lower your socket with its extensions between the hoses, wires and tubing, using your finger to find the “invisible” screw. Finding the screw is the most difficult part of this repair job. Take a look at the helpful pictures from SaabWorld to get an idea of where all of these screws are—and the extension setup you will need for the impossible screw.
Time to Replace the Engine Mount—There are More Screws
Once you remove all three screws and the top nut on your Saab, you’ll need to remove two screws from the lower front torque rod mount. This way you’ll have enough room to lift the old engine mount out so you can get the new one in. Once you’ve lifted your engine, make sure to put a wood block between the hydraulic jack and the oil pan to avoid damaging anything. Mess that up, and you’ll soon be paying a visit to your local Saab garage.
Time to Put Your Saab’s Engine Back Together Again
Once the engine is high enough, you can remove the old mount entirely. You will now be reversing the whole procedure by installing the new mount and putting all of those screws back into place. Be sure not to fully tighten any one of the screws until they are all installed. Next, lower your 9-5’s engine until there’s enough room to put the main nut back in. Don’t lower the engine all the way.
Replace the two screws to the lower front torque rod mount. Now you can lower the engine all of the way and fully replace the screws. Congrats. You’re done, and it might as well be Miller time!
Save Yourself a Hassle and Call Your Local Saab Mechanic
Does this sound like a lot of work? Call the folks at European Auto Specialists, your trusted Saab mechanic. We’d love to give you an estimate, and let you know how long it will take to repair your car. Take the afternoon off and we’ll have it done before you know it.
