Saab

Technical Training

SAAB

SaatlC11tUSA.lnc
SMbOnvt.PO BoAff7
O.lflOl.CT0&-477

8 /90

9005SPEED

900 5 Speed
Foreword

The Information In this book Is Intended to supplement

rather than replace the service manual. The manuals
are constantly updated as changes are made to the
transmission and should be considered the final
authority.
As a oonveoleoce we have listed part numbers for
shims, synclvos and a few othef components. This
Information Is aCCU'ate as of spring 1990 but may
change at any time, when In dolbt check the parts fiche
and S.I. books.
Many of the operations In this book call for you to make
a judgement as to whether or not a part should be
reused. We have provided as many guidelines as we
can to help you make these decisions but In Iha end II ls
your experience that will be lhe determining factor.
Some parts (pinion bearings for example) should
always be replaced but there are many others such as
gears and synclvo components that are often
needlessly replaced "Just In case. Finding and fixing
Iha real cause of the problem will lower costs, reduce
come backs and give you the satisfaction of knowing
you are a technician, not just a parts changer.

900 5 Speed
Transmission Identification

l.D. Tag
All transmissions carry an Identification tag on the top
of the primary housing. This plate shows the
transmission type and serial numbers. The type code
shown below for 1984 and later cars (see shop manual
for older models) allows you to match the transmission
to the appropriate parts listing ln the microfiche and
determine gear ratios and proper application without
having to open up the box.

'

772306

Transmlulon type numbers,

1984 models onwards

GM = Manual tmsmiS1lion
GA Au1omatic transmiS1llon

Transmission version

Number of forward geam

3 = 3-speed
4 = 4-speed
5 = 5-speed

Primary gear ratio

(see table)
Variant

Gear ratio number

Primary gear

Manual

4
Number of teeth.
inpuVoulput gear

Anti-Theft Marking
Beginning with the 1987 model year all major components and body parts carry an anti-theft marking label.
Thi s label is the subject of a two page Service Information 08/86- 872, Section A-0, Page 21. Found In Supplement 6-A.
The central theme ofthis bulletin is that the labels must
not be removed or defaced In any way even when Installing the component In a vehicle with a different
V. J. N. number.

31/30
0.97

Gear ratio

SAAB 693n91

30/27 31126 32125

0.90

SAAB 693n91

6937791 SAAB

0.84

0.78

a
33/24
0.72

SAAB 6937791

6937791 SAAB

693n91 9'Wll

SAAB 6937 YS3AR35J1 H2023907 937791

6937791 SAAB
6937791 SAAB
6937791 8'1Wll

SPi."'8 6937791

SAAB 593ns1

SAAB 693n91

900 5 Speed
Specifications

Lubricants
Transmission Fluid - Engine oil 10W30or10W40,
3 U.S. qt.,
Alternate
Gear oil SAE EP 75 API GL4 or GL5
Saab part no. 99 00 754 (5 gallons)
Inner U joint grease - Saab ':J" grease
Saab part no. 02 70 025 (7 1/2 lb can).

Torques

All 8mm Case Bolts .......... 15-18 ft lbs

Slave Cylinder Bolts . . . . . . . . . 4- 1O
8mm Ring Gear Bolts . . . . . . . . . . 37
10mm Ring Gear Bolts .......... 66
Lower Chain Sprocket Nut,
32mm Hex ., .. ... . .... .... 67- 81
Forward Pinion Shafi Nut,
24mm Hex ... .. ............ 37

Bearing Preloads
New Pinion Bearings
Used Pinion Brgs. (Over 1,200 Miles)
New Differential Bearings
Used Differential Brgs.
(Over 1,200 Miles)

18- 27 In lbs
7- 16 In lbs

. .. 4.7- 7.0 KGF

.. . 1.9-4 .3 KGF

16- 24 In lbs

. .. 8- 28

KGFCM

.. . 8- 3

KGFCM

7- 11 in lbs

Using Spring Scale and String

(KGF =KG= KP)

Using Torque Wrench

(KGFCM = KGCM)

900 5 Speed
Specifications

Sealants/Locking Fluid
Many of the bolts in the transmission are precoated
with thread sealant or locking fluid. The shop manual
draws your attention to these bolts with the picture
shown to the right. The accompanying bolt length chart
also highlights the coated bolts. Failure to recoat
these bolts with the proper compound when rebuilding
can result In leakage of gear oil or major mechanical
failures.

Locking Fluids
Loctite 270 (Red)
Pinion bearing nut
Lower chain sprocket nut
Forward pinion sllaft nut

Loctite 242 (Blue)

Ring gear bolts
Torx head bolls for the stamped steel
primary case bearing retainer
Cluster gear and reverse Idler shaft retaining plate bolt
Reverse idler actuating arm pivot bolt
Reverse selector shaft retaining bolt (older models before roll pin)
Pinion housing bolts
All other bolts calling for "Locking Fluid" In the shop manual

900 5 Speed
Specifications

Sealants

1)

Loctite 51~ (Gasket eliminator)

Main case to primary housing surface

Permatex Aviation

Two chain tensioner bolts

Tuvo upper alien (not torx) head primary case bearing retainer bolts
lWelve differential bearing side cover bolts
Three slave cylinder mounting bolts
Six engine to gearbox bolts with tapped holes drilled through Into the
transmission section of the malncase

High Temperature Silicon

Slotted portion of engine sump gasket - DO NOT

use on the solid portion of the steel gasket, It Is
precoated at the factory.

900 5 Speed
Special Tools

-A

''' '

Engine Lining Sling

83 92409

Transmission Holding Focture

8390400

Pressure Plate Spacer Ring

83 90 023 (small diameter)
87 91 618 (large diameter)
Suspension Block
83 93 209

Upper Chain Sprocket Puller

87 90 891

Clutch Removal Lever

83 93 175

900 5 Speed
Special Tools

t. Q(\()ry!

Input Shaft Puller

Slide Hammer

87 90 917

83 90 270

Layshaft Puller
83 90 049

Differential Side Cover Pu lier

8790n6

Q.__<~-~~..:::'_>_O__..~._
-
.....

Pinion Shatt Press

Pinion Shatt Press Spacers (4)

87 90 511

87 90 909

900 5 Speed
Special Tools

Pinion Depth Gauge

83 90 155
Dial Indicator
78 40 622

Spring Scale

83 90 130
Dial Indicator Holder
8790727

Differential Bearing Preload Tool

87 90 818

Stack Height Gauge

8790552

900 5 Speed
Special Tools

Pinion Shaft Holder

Pinion Holding Fixture

87 90 636

83 90 064

Pinion Nut Wrench

87 90 453

I:

9:33 Pinion Fixture Insert

87 91 097
9:35 Pinion Fixture Insert
87 90 651

; \

Pinion Bearing Installation Tool

87 90 925 (- 88)
87 91 972 (89- )

Input Shaft Bearing Puller

87 ()0 ()33
(Shaded area shows shop modification for M89 transmission)

900 5 Speed
Special Tools

Selector Shafi Seal Remover

Reverse Gear Lock

87 90 on

8790503

Drift , Bearing Installation

Selector Shatt Seal Installer

83 90 189

8790 685

Input Shall Bearing Drifl

lmer Driver Seal Installer

78 41 075

8790800

10

900 5 Speed
Special Tools

Inner Driver Support Bearing Drift

78 41 141

Inner Driver Installation Drift

78 41 067

Pinion Shafi Drift

83 90 148

Input Shafi Housing Support

Pinion Bearing Housing Support
83 90098

Dlfferemlal Bearing Race Drift

8390114

Pinion Bearing Race Drift

87 90 461

11

900 5 Speed
Special Tools

Differential Bearing Race Drift

8790487

Clutch Seal Driver

83 91 997

Input Shafi Bearing Race Drift

83 90 312

Pinion Bearing Race Remover

83 90 106 (- 88)
87 91 964 (89- )

Upper Sprocket Bearing Driver

87 90859

Pinion Housing Guide Pins

87 90 438

12

900 5 Speed
Special Tools

--v

c:::::::::;:.~.:--

Selector Housing Nut Socket

87 90370

1986 1/2 - 1989 Selector Shaft Lock

87 91 576

01r-----~
1990- Selector Shaft Lock
87 91 998

13

900 5 Speed
Gearbox Description

The 900 5 speed transmission Is designed and

produced by Saab. Notable features of this design are
the chain primary drive and "backwards" engine
placement. The chain drive makes It possible to easl ly
alter drive ratios without changing the ring and pinion
and the unusual engine orientation permits you to
quickly change the clutch without removing either the
engine or transmission. The maincase casting forms
the engine crankcase but engine and gear oils are
separate.

'14

900 5 Speed
Gaskets and Sealing Surfaces

....

GASKETS
The front, rear and side covers are sealed with gaskets.
No additional gasket compound is necessary.

METAL TO METAL
The joint between the malncase and primary hOuslng is
a metal to metal flt. Use of a gasket would alter Internal
clearances. The surfaces must #'e clean and
undamaged. Use Loctite 51
an anaerobic
compound, not blue goo.

s'.

BOLT THREADS
All bolts with holes drilled Into the transmission portion
of the case must be treated with Permatex Aviation
Gasket Compound (not needed on new pretreated
bolts).

15

900 5 Speed
Construction - Shafts and Gears

Power Is transmitted tlvough the transmission via the

following shafts and gears.
A. Clutch shaft; splined to the upper primary chain
sprocket, easily removable for clutch work .
B. Input shaft; splined to the lower primary chain
sprocket. Fifth gear (actually the cluster shaft Input
gear) Is part of this shaft.
C. Pinion shaft; reverse gear and the synchro hubs are
splined to this shaft. First, second, third and forth
gears turn on bushings which slip over the pinion
Shaft.

Matched Gears
Only the ring and pinion are a matched set, all others
may be replaced Individually.

16

'

900 5 Speed
Construction - Cluster Gear

Cluster Gear
Also known as countershaft or layshaft. The cluster
gear Is built up of two segments. The Input or fifth gear
portion Is joined to the main section by a splined
bushing locked In position with a snap ring.

Reverse Idler
The reverse Idler is In constant mesh with the cluster
and acts as a bridge between the cluster gear ai:!dreverse gear on the p inion shaft. These are the only
sliding mesh gears in the transmission and,
accordingly, the first to be damaged by abuse.

Bearings And Thrust Washers

The transmission utilizes taper roller bearings. straight
loose rollers, ball bearings. needle bearings, bushings
and metal to metal (oil film) designs. The size, design
and roller count of these bearings has changed as the
transmission evolved_ Always carefully compare
bearing numbers and roller counts when rebuilding.

17

900 5 Speed
Power Flow

.
5

Reverse
Idler

An important part of analyzing transmission complaints

is understanding which components are Involved in the
affected gear(s). The following pages show the applied
gears and synchronizers in each range.

18

'

~90~0~5~S~p=e=
e~
d ~~~~~~~~ ~
Power Flow

First Gear

Second Gear

19

900 5 Speed
Power Flow

Third Gear

'

Fourth Gear

Reverse
Idler

20

'

Power Flow

Fifth Gear

Reverse
Idler
Reverse

21

900 5 Speed
Synchronizer Construction

'

'

/I

The synchronizer assembly has two basic functions;

first to match (synchronize} gear speed to pinion speed
and, once this has occurred, lock the gear to the pinion
shaft.
Like many of the components in the transmission there
are several variations of each of the parts shown
above, most of which are close enough In appearance
to interchange. These differences are covered In detail
in the rebuild guide portion of this book. Always check
part numbers and identifying marks before Installing
replacement parts. It can mean the difference between
a successful repair and a comeback.

/--Ah - ;jok11gf d"

S.4 .

,or/11() '\
v

Jf'

c~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

22

900 5 Speed
Synchronizer Operation

Neutral
The synohro sleeve Is centered on the hub. The synchro
ring Is In contact with its retaining ring but not with the
tapered face of the sleeve.

Neutral

Partially Engaged
The synchro sleeve has moved slightly to the right
towards the gear. The synchro ring Is In contact with the
sleeve, the friction created between these two
components starts to "synchronize" gear and pinion
shaft speed. The amount of friction Is dependent on
spring tension, oil viscosity and tempElfature, etc,

Partially
Engaged

Fully Engaged

Fully
Engaged

After the synchro ring has matched the speed of the

gear to that of the pinion shaft the splines on the I. D. of
the sleeve bridge the splines on the O. D. of the hub and
gear. These splines are what takes the abuse when the
synchro Is weak or someone misses a shill . not the
actual gear teeth.

23

900 5 Speed
Selector Mechanism

Name

Function

A
B

i'

c
D

hi"-

cf/)le!"5 I J1-).r:J

The selector mechanism located inside the

transmission Is responsible for a number of functions.
In addition to selecting gear ratios the mechanism
blocks the driver from simultaneously engaging two
gears, provides a simple synchronizer function for
reverse gear, helps lock the transmission into gear and,
In later production, centers the shift lever in the selector
gate. The selector shaft itself is not adjustable but there
are both external adjustments (shift console and
selector shaft coupling) and Internal tolerances (stack
height) which are controllable and can greatly affect
shift quality and function.

24

'

900 5 Speed
Lubrication
Oil Specification
Only two basic types of olls are specified for this box,
engine oll 10W- 30 or 10W-40 and 75 weight GL 4 or
GL 5 gear oil. Never use a heavier oil such as a multi
weight gear oil, both shift quality and bearin91
lubrication will suffer, particularly in oold weather.

Oil Level
The primary housing has a series of oil collection
devices, not the least of wtlich is the chain tensioner.
Incidentally, It Is possible to install the tensioner upside
down with the oollectlng cup on the bottom wtllch
makes trapping oil rather dlffioult. When Installing a
rebuilt transmission preflll the primary housing with
approximately one pint of oil through the Input shaft
cover opening to Insure good lubrication and tensioner
action on start up.

25

900 5 Speed
Lubrication

Oil Level

There is a check ball located In the primary case whose

function is to prevent gravity from transferring all the oil
Into the primary housing and starving the final drive
when on a steep downgrade. This is a passive device
and requires no regular service. A similar function Is
performed by the single metal shield on the firewall
side of the ball bearing supporting the p inion shaft
directly above the check ball. Installing a bearing from
a jobber without this shield or reversing the bearing
would cause oil level or durability problems .

Oil Flow
The bearings, bushings, chains, and gear surfaces are
lubricated by a combination of splash feed and gravity
flow through a series of collecting troughs and drilled
passages. This Is an effective, trouble free system. The
only common problem has been with technicians
failing to clean these passages during a rebuild and
recontaminating the gearbox.

26

900 5 Speed
Production History

Year

Identifying Characteristics

Major Changes, Rebuild Notes

1980

Sand cast malncase. no mounting Cluster gear and third gear guide ring
bosses for the turbo exhaust pipe
modified during the model year to
bracket.
prevent loss of third gear synchro
spring.

1981

Die cast malncase with two mounting Snap ring on forward end of pinion
bosses tor the turbo exhaust p ipe
shaft must be Installed with sharp
bracket.
edges facing forward.

1982

Visually the same as 1981, check the New ring and pinion, 9:33
l.D. plate.
rather than 9:35 (3.89:1).

{3.67:1)

Larger rear cluster gear bearing,

new cluster gear.
Stronger detent spring (recommend retrofitting to older boxes).
Snap ring at front of pinion shaft replaced with a nut (do not overtorque nut).

1983 & 1984

Large dipstick hole for combined oil Iii- Cast pinion bearing housing replaced
!er/dipstick (reducer bushing available
die- cast version, all die- cast housto install gearbox In older cars).
lngs should be scrapped.
Modified synchro cone angle, new
synchro sleeves.
Asymmetrical synchro sleeve teeth
on 2nd and 3rd gear.
New differential assembly with roll pin
locking the cross shaft in position.

27

900 5 Speed
Production History

Year

1985

Identifying Characteristics

Major Changes, Rebuild Notes

Turbo models have a heavier Inner driv- Extended input shaft on turbo models
er with corresponding changes to
with support bearing In the front cover.
axles, bools and trunnion bearings.
The inner driver has two rather than Input shafts, bearing housing and
three external ribs.
spacers modified during the year to
reduce chain wear by offsetting the
lower sprocket.
Always verify that the transmission
has the correct inner drivers before installation.

1986 - 1988

Large Inner drivers phased In on non Gearboxes with new selector mechaturbo models as running change during
nism must not be interchanged with
1986. Also changes to the Internal sethe older style. If you mix and match
lector mechanism identified by a modiyou could have a car with two shift lelied rear cover and hole in selector shaft
ver centering mechanisms fighting
each other, or non at all.
for linkage adjustment tool. Modified
front cover for hydraulic front mount on
turbo.

1989

Strengthened, upgraded transmission. All major internal components

No major external differences, check
changed including ring and pinion
the l.D. plate.
(9:35 tooth count), larger rear p inion
bearing, upgraded cluster shaft bearings, stronger gears, etc.

1990

Rear cover modified to accomodate a New selector rod locking tool

transmission oil flier. new "boxy"
introduced to flt In the modified rear
shape.
cover.

28

900 5 Speed
Measuring

The basic measuring tools for the 900 manual

transmission are a dial Indicator (Saab special tool no.
78 40 622), feeler gauges and a caliper or micrometer.
These should all be metric, both to eliminate errors from
translating specs back and forth and because of the
much greater accuracy Inherent In the metric system
(the standard unit, 0.01mm. is less than0.0005 Inch, 1/2
of the standard graduation of the English system).
The dial Indicator shown has two hands. The larger one
records movement in increments of one one hundredth
of a millimeter (O.Olmm), the shorter one records
complete revolution of the larger one (1 graduation =
1mm). Always set the dial indicator up so that the small
hand Is not near the end of the scale (you may run out of
meter movement) and always check both scales (you
may set a + 5 pinion at + 1.05mm If you Ignore the
small scale.
In addition to making the standard backlash and pinion
deplh checks, the dial indicator may be used as a
substitute for a micrometer or caliper by mounting It In
the fixture for measuring valve pallet thickness.

29

900 5 Speed
Teardown - Checking Backlash

Anytime a ring and p inion has run more than 6,000

miles, a definite wear pattern has been established. To
avoid changing the wear pattern and increasing final
drive noise, you must check backlash and pinion depth
before stripping the box.

When checking backlash, observe the following steps:

1.

Set the dial indicator so that the p lunger is at right

angles to the ring gear tooth to insure a true
reading.

2.

Measure at four points and average the readings.

There should be little variation (maximum
0.0Smm) between readings. If it is greater
recheck, there may be dirt on a tooth or you may
have rocked the ring gear too hard and moved the
pinion.

3.

When you remove the differential, tie strap or bolt

the shims to the side covers. These shims control
both backlash and carrier bearing preload, lose a
shim now and you will have to build your shim
pack from scratch during reassembly.

Stock Clearance, New Gears

0.17 mm 0.05 mm

Thickness

Part Number

0.10 mm
0.15 mm
0.30 mm
0.50mm

83
83
83
83

41 604
41 612
41 620
41 638

30

900 5 Speed
Teardown - Checking Pinion Depth

As the name implies pinion depth is an Indication of the

depth of engagement between the pinion and ring gear.
Like backlash, this Is a dimension which affects both
the noise level and durability of the gearset. In practical
terms, p inion depth Is the distance from the center line
of the ring gear to the face of the pinion.

d~.Omm ~

DESIGN SPECIFICATION

On a Saab the gearsets are designed to run quietly

when this dimension Is 60.00 mm. In the real world, due
to norma l production tolerances, this "Ideal" setting
varies from set to set. During its production each
matched set of gears Is tested to find its optimum
setting and a number showing that setting Is etched on
the pinion face along with the l.D. number that matches
the ring gear and pinion.

31

900 5 Speed
Teardown - Checking Pinion Depth

Occasionally a gearset will run best at the design

setting of 60 mm. That pinion will be marked omeaning
"no deviation from the standard setting".

'

This corresponds to the reading you wil l see when the

dial indicator has been "zeroed" on the pinion depth
gauge.

The next ring and pinion produced might run best when
the pinion moves away from the ring gear center line by
0.05 mm. This means the measured distance has
increased to 60.05 mm and the pinion face will be
marked +5.
You can simulate this dial indicator reading by slowly
lifting the pinion depth gauge off it's base plate until the
pointer moves 5 graduations from O. Note that as you
increase distance the dial indicator moves counter
clockwise.

Plus Pinion Settings Move The Dial Indicator

Counter Clockwise

32

900 5 Speed
Teardown - Pinion Depth Checks

The third set of gears checked may be happiest when

moved closer together by 0.10 mm. The measured
distance has thus been decreased to 59.90 mm and the
pinion face will be marked - 10.
You can simulate this by slipping a 0.10 mm shim
between the dial Indicator plunger and the base plate
of the pinion depth gauge. This will move the dial
indicator reading 10 graduations clockwise from 0.
Minus Pinion Settings Move The Dlal Indicator
Clockwise

Tolerance
All settings have a tolerance of 0.05 mm.
For example, a + 8 pinion could read anywhere
between + 13 and + 3 and be within specification.

Pinion Shims
Thickness

-88

89-

0.10 mm

87 24 569

87 26 259

0. 15

87 24 577

87 26 267

0.30

87 24 585

87 26 275

0.50

87 24 593

87 26 283

33

900 5 Speed
Teardown - Pinion Depth Checks

Pinion depth ls easily adjusted by changing the shims

sandwiched between the pinion housing and
maincase. There is a one to one relationship between
pinion depth and shim thickness, no formulas or
calculalions are needed.

34

900 5 Speed
Parts Inspection - Differential

Differential Spider Gear Shafts

Inspect the differential spider gear shaft for wear under
the spider gears. This ls particularly Important if there Is
evidence of lubrication problems. On earlier models
where the shaft was retained by snap rings the shaft
should not rotate easily In the differential housing. If
still usable tum the shaft 90 to provide a fresh seat for
the Inner driver plungers.

Inner Drivers
Wash and Inspect the Inner drivers, wear will take place
where the axle trunnion bearing contacts the driver.
During the rebuild you should swap the drivers from
side to side. This will give the axle fresh contact points.
If there Is substantial wear the owner will complain of a
heavy vibration on acceleration as the axle drops Into
and cllmbs out of the wear pockets.

35

900 5 Speed
Reassembly - Differential Bearing Preload

Note:

The following procedure need only be

followed In its entirety If major components
have been replaced or the original shim pack
lost. If you have the original shim pack and
there have been no major parts changed
bypass the first two steps and go directly to
checking preload with a torque wrench.

1.

Replace Inner driver seals, pack between the

seal lips with soft grease (Essa Nebula EP2 or
equivalent). Lube the differential bearings with
engine oil - do not use gear additives or snake
oil. Install the differential and L.H. (with speedo
drive) side cover without the driver or shims,
torque the bolts to 14- 18 ft lbs.

2.

Install the R.H. side cover without the Inner driver,

shims or O ring. Tighten the bolts in three even
stages to 20 inch pounds. Measure the clearance
between the malncase and the side cover at three
points and average the readings. Add 0.2 mm to
this number and build a shim pack equal to this
thickness.

36

900 5 Speed
Reassembly - Differential Bearing Preload

3.

Verify that the total thickness Is correct by

installing all shims under the R.H. side cover,
torque the bolts to 14 n. lbs. Spin the differential at
least 1Orevolu11ons to seat the bearings and then
measure preload with a torque wrench and tool
87 90 818. New bearings should show a drag of
16-25 inch pounds, used bearings 7- 12 Inch
pounds. Aller the shim pack as needed to bring
the preload within this range.

Once the correct shim pack has been selected remove

the differential and tie strap the shims to the R.H. side
cover.
Note:

Do not change the total shim pack thickness

after this point.

Thickness

Part Number

0.10mm

83 41 604

0.15mm

83 41 612

0.30mm

83 41 620

0.50mm

83 41 638

37

900 5 Speed
Teardown - Pinion Bearings

To prevent damage to the pinion shaft threads drill

away the staked llange of the pinion nut. Lock the
pinion shaft In tool no. 83 90 064 and remove the nut.
Press the forward pinion bearing and housing off the
shaft. Do Not attempt to press off both bearings at
once.
Select the proper pinion adaptor for tool no. 87 90 636,
lube the pinion gear and press off the rear pinion
bearing.

Note:

The pinion will rotate as It passes through the

fixture. To avoid binding and possibly
chipping the trailing edges of the pinion teeth
press the bearing off In stages, ease off on
the press and reposition the pinion several
times during the removal process.

38

900 5 Speed
Parts Inspecti on - Pinion Bearing s & Housing s

Pinion Bearings
llle heart of the transmission is the pinion bearing.
Unlike gears and synchros it Is false economy to reuse
pinion bearings (or any other bearing with more than a
few thousand miles of seNlce). If you have gone this far
put In new bearings, the latest pinion bearings for
80- 88 transmissions are of an Improved proflled"
design, Saab P/N 87 24 890. Don't just pull the
universal number off the old bearings and go to a
jobber, It will tit but It won't be right.

Pinion Bearing Housings

Older 5 speeds used a die cast pinion housing
characterized by Its smooth surface finish requiring
relatively little machine work. lllis style would fall under
severe load causing extensive transmission damage,
the complaint would usually be hard shifting and being
locked In or out of gear. During 1982 production
upgraded versions were Introduced. llle first, a short
term solution, w as sand cast and characterized by a
rough finish and pinkish tint when new. llle final
solution was a "dlill cast design, Saab P/N 87 20 732.

39

900 5 Speed
Parts Inspection - Pinion Bearings & Housings

..

Any of the original die cast housings should be

scrapped even If they have not failed. An actual failure
Is easy to spot, the flange over the pinion depth shims
separates from the rest of the housing. If this has
happened, carefully Inspect the maln case for cracking
In the bore where the pinion housing sits. You can also
expect to find damage where the forward end of the
pinion shaft and the Input shaft come together.

40

900 5 Speed
Reassembly - Pinion Bearings
Press a new rear pinion bearing on the pinion shaft
using tool no. 87 90 636 and ring 87 80 925 (- 88) or 87
91 972 (89-).
Note:

Your tool tor the 89 and later gearooxes may

contact the step on the pinion shaft before the
bearing Is fully seated. The piston from an
old slave cylinder makes a good press tool If
this occurs.

Install a new crushable sll~eve, loosely assemble the

p inion housing, pinion shaft and forward p inion
bearing. Lubricate the bearings with engine oll.
Partially collapse me crushable sleeve by pressing
against the Inner race of the forward pinion bearing and
the pinion head. Stop as soon as you feel any preload.
Clean and loctite a new nut, tighten it until you reach a
roUlng torque of 18-27 Inch pounds (torque wrench) or
a pull of 4.7 - 7.0 KG (spring scale). If you go too tar
strip the assembly, flt a new crushable sleeve and start
again.
Note:

Turn the p inion shaft at least 1Orevolutions to

seat the bearings before taking the preload
reading.

Stake the shoulder of the nut when the proper preload Is

attained, use a rounded drift to avoid spllttlng the
locking surface.

41

900 5 Speed
Reassembly - Stack Height

The internal shift linkage in the 900 5- speed is not

adjustable, its location is fixed by the position of the
detent ball in the main case. In order to insure proper
alignment between the shift forks and synchro sleeves
the gear stack itself Is adjusted. This is done by
selectively fitting shims between reverse gear and the
pinion nut. Failure to properly set this tolerance will
result In incomplete synchronizer engagement and a
tendency to pop out of gear.
Note:

This operation must be done following the

final pinion depth adjustment - pinion depth
affects stack height.

The sealing surface of the maincase must be clean in

order to get an accurate measurement. Adjust the shim
pack until there is the smallest possible clearance
between the tip of tool no. 87 90 552 and the shim pack
without lifting the tool away from the sealing surface of
the main case. If using a universal depth gauge the
clearance Is 195.0 - 195.1 mm. Shims are available In
thickness of 0.30, 0.40 and 0.50 mm.

42

900 5 Speed
Disassembly Inspection - Gears

Gear Tooth Deterioration

Always carefully check gear teeth near the root for
signs of pitting or spalling and other damage such as
that caused by foreign objects or lack or lubrication.

Thrust Surfaces
All gears except reverse ride on bearings or bushings
and, In the case or the forward gears, have thrust
surfaces to control end float. Check the l.D. of the gear
for signs of wear or lack of lubrication and inspect both
end races for signs or damage to the thrust surfaces.
This Is partlcularty critical on 4th gear where the
stepped bushing will collapse If the 24mm pinion nut ls
overtorqued.

43

900 5 Speed
Disassembly Inspection - Synchromesh Sleeves

J c

When should a part be replaced? The ability to make

this decision marks the difference between a
technician and a parts changer. Here are some
guidelines:

.-

- .

-~ .

NEW

Synchromesh Sleeve Friction Surface

At higher mileage the tapered seat for the synchro ring
develops a wear pattern. If rough or wavy the sleeve
should be replaced. The finish on the surface is critical
do not bead b last or otherwise attempt to recondition
tlie sleeve.

USABLE
Synchromesh Engagement Teeth

J c

These are the "gears" that grind when you miss a shift.
A certain amount of wear at this point is inevitable, it is a
waste of money to replace every gear or sleeve Where
someone has "kissed" the tip of the teeth.

..

: : ::-

SCRAP

44

'

..._

900 5 Speed
Disassembly Inspection - Synchro Rings

Many technicians automatically install new synchro

rings during an ovemaul regardless of whether or not
the originals show any significant wear.
It Is possible to accurately check the condition of the
rings as follows:

Inspect the ring visually for signs of damage to the

splines, check the friction surface for damage or
contamination from foreign material.

If the ring passes this test drop It Into a good

synchro sleeve. Push down gently to seat the ring

and measure the clearance as shown at three
points. Bronze rings must have at least 1.5 mm,
coated rings at least 1.0 mm clearance.

Note:

It ls good practice to check all synctvo rings,

new and used. before Installing them In the

transmission.

45

900 5 Speed
Parts Identification - Gears

'

There are three principle factors to be checked when

replacing gears during an overhaul or repair, they are:
Does the tooth count, diameter, etc. match?
Has the bearing surface changed?
Are the synchro sleeve engagement teeth the
same?

Tooth Count
There ar~ currently (spring of 90) three main families of
gears that you will encounter during repair work; -1980,
1981-88, 1989- . Many of these gears are similar
enough to one another so that is possible to put
together a box with the wrong parts. Always Check
tooth count, outer diameter, root diameter and spacing.
Important differences In the first two groups may be
found on S.I. 05/82-567 (section 4, page 71 of bound
S.I. Supplement No.3).

46

900 5 Speed
Parts Identification - Gears, Bearings
Synchro Teeth
In November of 1982 the tip angle of the synchro sleeve
engagement teeth on 2nd and 3rd gears was changed
to Improve cold shifting characteristics. The teeth on
1he later gears are asymmetrical. The earlier style gears
are no longer available.

Bearing Design
The support bearings at both ends of the cluster gear
were upgraded in 1982 production. In both cases the
bore In the gear for the bearing was Increased and the
bearing altered accordingly. The older gears have
been superseded by the newer style and the
appropriate bearing. Again these changes are noted
on S.I. 05/82-567. In 1989 production both bearings
were further upgraded by Increasing the roller count at
the from to 15 and,ln the rear, by installing a
combination inner race and thrust washer between the
layshaft and the cluster gear.

..' .

Symmetrical

Asymmetrical

47

::

900 5 Speed
Parts Inspection - Gulde Rings

Guide Rings

'

Inspect all guide rings, particularly those on 3rd, 4th

and 5th gears for wear or distortion. If deformed In any
way replace it. The guide rings for 3rd and 4th gears are
locked In position by wire lock rings. There have been
two styles In use, circular and pear shaped. Pay
attention to the fiche and do not mix styles, I.e. don't
reuse an early circular ring with a new guide ring
designed for a pear shaped lock.

48

'

900 5 Speed
Parts Inspection - Synchro Springs

There are four different synchro springs In use on the

900 5 speed, only 3rd and 4th gears share the same
spring. Always check the springs for color coding and
other characteristics before Installing thefn. As you can
see on the chart there Is a substantial difference In
spring tension and Installing the wrong spring will
create shift problems, (hard engagement, grinding Into
gear).

Gear

Color Code

Spring Tension

BLUE

10 N

87 11103

GREEN

30N

8715120

3&4

WHITE

24N

8700429

CLEAR

16 N

8715 005

Inspect the springs for signs of damage or distortion,

(1st gear spring Is shorter than the others and Is
manufactured with a short angle or "kink" In the middle
of the coll). Replace a spring if Its stiffness doesn't
seem right when compared to a known good spring or
In relation to the other springs.
Note:

Part Number

During reassemb ly the ends of the springs for

gears 1- 4 must be visible through two of the
"missing" splines of the synchro ring (11
splines apart). The spring ends for 5th gear
must be 5 splines apart.

49

900 5 Speed
Parts Inspection - Synchro Rings, Hubs

At first glance there appear to be only two types of

synchro rings in use on the 900 5- speed. Plain bronze
wit11 a sharply ribbed contact face for 1st and 4th gears
and bronze with a gray coated contact face for 2nd and
3rd gears.

Coated

Plain

1 &4

2&3

Closer inspection reveals that there are two versions of

each type. During 1982 production the taper angle of
the contact face was changed and the synchromesh
sleeve was modifi ed to match.

It is critical that these par1s only be used in set s as

shown below.
Earl y

Late

87 00 41 1 (No Longer Available)

87 20 419
l.D. for Late Cone Angle

Ignore (Manufacturers Code}

50

9005Spee d
Parts Interchangeability - Gears & Synchro Rings

The early style synctlfo rings are still available for

rebuilding 4 speed and early 5 speed transmissions,
the synchro sleeve Is not. If the synchro sleeve Is
damaged it must be replaced as a package by the
newer style sleeve and both newer synctlro rings.
The newer gears

may be

Installed

In older

transmissions In two different configurations.

New gear with early style synchromesh sleeve

and synchro rings (shift quality will be no better
than with original parts).

New gear, late synchromesh sleeve and both

synchro rings (provides upgraded shift quality).

51

900 5 Speed
Parts Inspection - Shift Forks

Shift forks must be checked for wear on the faces that

come ln contact with the synchromesh sleeve as
follows:

"

'

1st, 2nd and 5th GEAR FORKS

Wear must not exceed 0.1 mm on either slde.

II
I

Maximum 0.1 mm

3rd and 4th GEAR FORKS

The silver plating must not be worn through, some
surface scratching Is allowable.

52

900 5 Speed
Reassembly - Input Shaft Bearing Preload

The input shaft Is carried by a pair of tapered roller

bearings much like the pinion shaft. Unlike the pinion
bearings there Is no preload, the bearings are set up
using shims and spacers so that there is zero drag on
the bearings. Preloadlng these bearings would place
unacceptable loads on the synchro rings, excessive
clearance would cause rapid bearing failure.
To select the proper shim pack proceed as follows:
1.

Wash the bearings to remove the oil film and

assemble the Input shaft assembly with a few
extra shims to Insure that you will have freeplay
between the bearings and races.

2.

Supp ort the synchro hub with tool no. 87 90 867

and simulate lower sprocket nut torque by
pressing against the upper bearing using drift no.
78 41 075 with a force of 3 tons.

3.

Seat the bearings by rotating the housing 1O

times against both the upper and lower bearings.

4.

Bolt the d ial Indicator and backlash fixture to the

b earing housing. Zero the indicator against the
base p late of the press while pressing downward
on the housing. Lift the housing. Subtrac1 the
Indicated clearance from the shim pack and
retest.

53

900 5 Speed
Reassembly - Input Shaft Bearing Preload
Reassembly - Input Shaft Bearing Preload
'

5.

You should come as close to zero clearance as

possible w ithout putting any drag on the
bearings. You may change spacers as well as
shlms to get the right combination.

Note: Shims always go next to the rear bearing.

Shim Thickness

Part Number

0.20 mm

8712 994

0.25mm

8713 448

0.30 mm

87 13 455

Spacer Thickness (- 88)

Part Number

7.28mm

8723 272

7.29mm

87 23 280

7.30mm

87 23 298

7.31 mm

87 23 306

Spacer Thickness (89-)

Part Number

5.28mm

87 26 184

5.29 mm

87 26 192

5.30mm

87 26 200

5.31 mm

87 26 218

54

9005Speed

Parts Identification - Input Shafts & Bearing Housings

There are several variations of Input shaft and bearing

housings In use. Their application varies with model
year and engine family. Various combinations of these
parts are possible. The major areas of change are:

The distance between bearing races on the Input

shaft bearing support.

Slight variations in the overall length of the portion

of the shaft where the bearings ride.

The addition of a forward support bearing on some

1fNTurbos.

The only serious mistake you could make by

mismatching parts would be to create a condition
where the forward nut would bottom out on the threads
before proper bearing preload Is obtained. This would
be caused by combining a narrow housing with a long
shaft.

55

900 5 Speed
Reassembly - Ring and Pinion Backlash

Before assembling the transmission you selected the

proper shim pack for carrier bearing preload. In this
operation you will redistribute the shims to obtain the
correct backlash.
Begin with two thirds of the shims mounted on the right
hand side of the transmission. This will prevent you
from crowding the ring gear into the pinion when you
tighten down the side cover bolts (14-18 ft lbs).
Measu.re

the

backlash

and

compare

to

the

Specification

specifications you took during disassembly. Calculate

17 . .05 mm

the difference between the two readings and move

shims of a corresponding thickness to the left hand
side bearing seat. Recheck backlash atfour points and
make f inal adjustments if needed.
If the backlash reading varies by more than 0.05 mm
remove the ring gear and position the dial Indicator
agalnstthe face of the differential housing. checking for
runout much as you would on a brake rotor. The
maximum allowable variation is 0.05 mm.

56

900 5 Speed
Parts Inspection - Primary Chains

Although they rarely fall outright the primary chains do

wear and stretch" during their life. A simple method to
determine tf the chains have reached their wear limit is
to check for clearance between the primary housing
and chains at the rubbing block. If you have less than
1o mm on both sides the chains should be replaced.
When tearing down the transmission label the chains
as to location - outer, middle and lmer. They wear at
slightly diffe<ent rates due to shaft movement and
should be put back In their original position.

Do not mix chains from different boxes or mix new and

used chains.

Minimum 1O mm

Minimum 10 mm

57

900 5 Speed
Shift Linkage Adjustment

There are three principle styles of selector mechanisms

in use, each with Its own adjustment procedure.

1980 - Mid 1982

Adjustment Is carried out by locking the shift lever In
reverse with the ignition key and checking for freeplay
when rocking the shift lever fore and aft. There should
be 3-4 mm movement. Adjustment is made by
loosening the three trHobed selector housing
mounting nuts and moving the housing forwards or
backWards until the correct clearance is obtained.

Mid 1982 - Mid 1986

The change over between the two styles is easily
spotted, the later version has an alignment hole
through the front of the shifter housing and selector rod.

l.

Adjust as follows:
1.

Select reverse gear.

2.

Loosen the clamp on the selector rod above the

steering rack.

3.

Lock the selector rod in position by dropping a

6mm pin through the hole at the front of the shifter
housing.

4.

Torque the bolt on the clamp to 22- 26 ft lbs.

58

900 5 Speed
Shift Linkage Adjustment
Mid 1986 Onward
At first glance the mechanism appears to be the same
but there are three Important differences:

1.

The 6mm pin holes line up In 3rd gear - not

reverse.

2.

n1e spring loaded selector centering mechanism

has disappeared from the front of the selector
housing. The function Is Internal to the gearbox.

3.

The gearbox rear cover has a guide slot and the

selector rod a new hole to accept a locking tool to
insure the linkage Is correctly aligned.

Adjust as follows:
1.

Select third gear, install the locking tool on the

rear cover of the gearbox.

2.

Loosen the p inch bolt on the selector rod clamp,

3.

Lock the shift lever Into third gear with the 6mm
pin.

4.

Tighten the pincn bolt on the clamp to 22- 26 ft.

lbs.

59

900 5 Speed
Shift Linkage Adjustment
1980 - Mid 1986 Centering Mechanism
All 5 speed transmissions have a mechanism to
automatically center the shift lever in the 3 - 4th gear
slot. Up until mid 1986 this was accomplished by a pair
of spring loaded rollers mounted on the front of the
selector housing.

Adjust as follows:
1.

Remove the console, drivers seat and left sill

plate. Fold back the carpet to uncover the tunnel.

2.

Engage 3rd gear.

3.

Loosen the two retaining screws loci<lng the roller

bracket in place.

4.

Move the bracket so that the rollers drop Into the

groves on the plastic block pinned to the selector
rod. Tighten the retaining screws.

5.

Move the shift lever into neutral. If the adjustment

is done correctly you should be able to push the
lever straight forward into third gear without
having to "fish" around for the slot.

Mid 1986 Onward Centering Mechanism

No adjustment needed.

60

900 5 Speed
Slave Cylind er - Clutch Wear
The slave cylinder for the Saab 5 speed Is a unique
co-axial design with a "hollow" piston surrounding the
clutch shaft. It Is self adjusting, much like a disk brake
callper.
In principle all years function along the same lines but
there are some significant changes which affect the
following operations.

Check ing Clutch Disk Wear

From the service standpoint the single most Important
part of the slave cylinder is the sliding dust shield. The
shield has two functions; one is to protect the exposed
portions of the cylinder, the other Is to act as a travel
stop to prevent the piston from retracting too far when
the clutch Is released.
The position of the sleeve provides an accurate
Indication of clutch wear. It is visible through an access
hole in the clutch cover. A new clutch will show 9mm
clearance as shown, If there Is less than 2mm the
clutch should be replaced .
Note:

Early production used a version without the

dust shield. The specifications and
procedure varies slightly, check the shop
manual.

61

900 5 Speed
Slave Cylinder - Basic Setting

Anytime the clutch has been removed the dust shield

must be repositioned to prevent the piston from
retracting too far. Failure to do this will create a problem
very similar to what happens when you back out of your
stall after a brake job without first tapping the pedal a
few times. Most of the clutch pedal travel will be used
getting the throw out bearing into contact with the
pressure plate.
Have someone hold the clutch pedal down while
pushing the dust shield towards the flywheel. The
shield will automatically position itself when the pedal
Is released.

62