DIY 9-3SS Power Steering pump seal replacement

[Dex4]

So finally got the new seal in on Thursday to install. So far no leaks. Total cost: $20 compared to $160 to $380.

Common symptom: Oil Leaking out of the top of the power steering pump reservoir. If you check your power steering fluid levels it will be overfilled and fluid will be brown in color because oil from the engine entering the power steering pump.

Use 13mm to remove the upper and lower bolts on the pump. 19mm for bolt on the output and channel locks to remove the clamp on the lower return line. Disconnect or remove the sensor on top of the pump.

New Seal special order from NAPA.


Power Steering pump is mounted to the top of the engine using the cam shaft to drive the pump.



Once the pump is out you will see the seal.



I used a small screw driver to pop out the seal. Be carefull as to not scratch the center shaft.



Picture of old (black) and new (brown) seal.







To install place the new seal on and slip it over the shaft. You should be able to press it in a little.



Then I used a 21mm socket and a plastic hammer to tap into place. You don't need to tap to hard.



Then once it's in make sure it is level and not crooked.



And reinstall.

Enjoy.

[volcomstone2262]

Nice to see other saab owners working on their cars.

Looks fairly easy, how many miles on the car? My 06 is around 78K already.

[Dex4]

I have 141K right now. I had replaced the power steering pump once a couple of years ago.

My wife has a 04 9-3ss with 87K and looks like the seal will need to be replaced as well.