HighMileageObservation

I have a 93' SW2 with 205,000 miles. I'm finally thinking of replacing the
original clutch. I 've changed the oil every 3k miles. I've been noticing
some increased oil consumption lately during periods of much stop and go
city driving. Some smoke on high acceleration. Otherwise the car has been
very reliable. I've done only routine maintenance. I've had to also replace
the serpinetine belt and fuel pump. I'm on the second set of brakes and
shocks, third battery, fourth set of tires.
I would like to keep this car running into the future and plan to replace
the clutch. In terms of piston ring wear, what does the usual
repair include? Taking off the head and replacing the rings? Does a head
and valve job need to be done also?
I also seem to be experincing a subtle vibration from the right front when
braking or driving over a rough surface.
I went under the car and could'nt detect any loosness in the suspension.
Could this be transaxle wear? Any other things to look for in terms of high
mileage wear and tear?

-Marty S.

 

Hey Marty,

At the mileage on your vehicle a total rebuild would
probably be in order. Your car has 205k but since it
is still strong stick with rebuilding your block. When you
buy a rebuild you run the chance of getting a engine that
might have some problems they only replace the parts
that are really worn say all valves looked good except
for 1 well they replace one if you get my picture plus you
could get a block that is not in the best shape. Also your
heads are probably worn out just due to age and they
are aluminum. when you do a rebuild with your block
your getting it done locally and they replace everything
not done on a engine mill line.

Cost 1 - 1.5k rebuild and another 500 to have a small
shop pull it and install it. One thing i read here alot is only
saturn will work on a saturn. In cincy where I am most
small places will work on just about anything and get
parts through napa or another local parts jobber without
problems.

If you have never replaced your clutch I would say wow
you have a light foot and have been very lucky. While
the engine is out replace it won't be as much cause the
engine is already pulled. at 205k you can't go wrong with
replacing it. Remember to also replace the master and
slave clutch cylinder They may not be bad yet but they
are at the end of their life and only a matter of time.

Front end Vibration during breaking could be worn
rotors or cv joints wearing out. Once again at 205k
either could be the problem or both. Another thing if
you have never replaced the struts that will cause vib
when you drive over rough surface.

At this mileage your wiring is probably starting to get a
bit on the brittle side so inspect all wiring. Simple things
like window regulators start to go bad bulbs in dash are
burning out.. Its kinda the little things that add up.

Bottom line look to spend around 2500.00 total for the
engine and clutch and maybe cv joints and your car with
proper service will give you another 205k of driving.


"Marty Stuczy

 

I have a 93' SW2 with 205,000 miles. I'm finally thinking of replacing the

Exactly how much oil is it burning? I wouldn't mess with it unless it gets
unbearably bad. If you rebuild it plan to do rings, bearings, hone, likely new
pistons, timing chain, valve job, etc. Take it to a local shop.

If the clutch isn't slipping or otherwise misbehaving, I woudn't worry about
replacing it.