Remove the rear seats, remove the plastic cover on the lower part of the opening, remove the galvanised steel cover and lift it up from the front and under you will see a plastic hydraulic tank with a brass nut/screw, remove the brass nut screw and fill to the line with a good fluid, I used Lucas hydraulic (power steering) fluid which also has a stop leak (for seals only will not stop leaks in fittings) in it. Utube has a few videos on this opperation and thats where I go to Saab school.
SOURCE: Saab 93 convertible 1999, how do you refill hydraulic roof
To check the oil level open the boot - at the very back remove the 4 plastic clips that hold the carpet in place. Slightly to the left of the center there are 2 holes - shine a light in the bottom and look through the top one to check the level.
To add oil - fold down the seat backrest. Remove the plastic trim - held on by 4 screws and 2 pop out plastic cllips.
Undo the 8 large bolts that hold the cover in place - 2 on top and 3 on front and back.Then lift up the cover from the front edge. You will then be able to get to the resevoir - you will need a funnel to poor fluid in.
SOURCE: 19886 saab 900 convertible roof not working.
Hi David:
First, check the fuses for the hydraulic motor; if they're blown, replace and monitor (why did they blow? Perhaps an overload, or ...) These fuses are located in the engine bay on top of the fender by the front right wheel housing.
Next check the voltage supply to the top switch, possibly a loose connection or broken wire.
Also check relays C (raising top) and D (lowering top) under the rear seat.
Lastly check for voltage at the pump, also under the rear seat, when the switch is actuated, and that the voltage polarity reverses when the switch is actuated the other way (up or down).
After that, it's a hydraulic/mechanical problem. Check the fluid level in the pump reservoir (use SAAB fluid to top up if low) Fluid level should be at the upper marker with top down, and at the lower marker with top up.
Check behind the rear seat side panels that the piston shaft is still properly attached to the roof mechanism bracket at one end, and the piston itself is still firmly attached to the body. Look for any leakage from the system.
If all tests out OK and looks good under the rear seat and behind the side panels, then there is the possibility that the piston seals have failed and the fluid is just circulating around without activating the piston. Pistons are available (http://www.convertibletopguys.com/cgi-local/displaycat.cgi?cat=584 - scroll down) but the entire system should be removed to avoid getting hydraulic fluid on the interior.
However, that fact that you can operate the hood using the bypass valve (manually) would indicate that the hydraulics are likely OK, and that it's probably an electrical or mechanical problem.
Good luck!
Saabreur
SOURCE: How do I check hydraulic level for 1998 saab
Fold rear seat forward
Remove plastic cover (6 plastic clips)
Remove bolts (8or9) holding motor cover
Lift front of cover up (motor should be upright at this point)
There is a line on the white plastic reservoir that indicates when full
Use care to rute the lines when refitting the motor assembly
Anon, a job like this in a lot of shops will solely be based on time(per hour labor rate) and materials(replacement parts). You could try a SAAB dealership for maybe a book price.
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