SAAB 9-3 RADIATOR

[peter]

I have been told that the Saab 9-3 radiator can be used on the Sprint.
As my Sprint is undergoing engine seal repairs and is currently out of the car I thought it would be a good time either to re core or try a more modern system.
Any reply that would help would be good.

[Fifi79]

Hi,
I'm in the process of rebuilding a Sprint to look like a replica BTTC Sprint. As I have run Saabs for years and knowing the Saab engines were based on the Sprint engine, I am fitting a radiator from a Saab 93 Aero to my Sprint.
It's required a bit of modification to the hinge panel and also as mine will be a race car replica, I've cut a hole in the lower front valence, to allow more air to the deeper radiator. It also requires minor mods to the rubber coolant hoses.
The benefits are (for me anyway) 50% weight saving over original radiator AND larger more efficient radiator.

Hope this helps

Paul

[Carledo]

Several folk on here have used the 9-3 rad to good effect (including me - though I don't have a Sprint engine)
You will need to incorporate a decent header tank into the system instead of the farty original but other than that, it's fairly simple. Extra holes in the front valance for improved cooling is nice but not essential unless you are going racing.
Checkout Ians (Sprint95M) and Shauns (Shaunroche) resto threads for pics and advice.

The Saab rad is bigger, better and cheaper than a Sprint one (I got a brand new 9-3 AUTO one (with trans oil cooler) from Euro car parts online for only £57 recently) All the 9-3 rads are basically the same from the 2.0 N/A to the 205hp Turbo, the year range is something like 97-03.

Steve

[shaunroche]

Hi Peter & Paul, I can't comment on how good or efficient the Saab rad is but it is true that I have fitted one as Steve says and Ian is very helpful.....I'm very interested in looking at your project Paul too as it sounds similar to my original intentions and you're not a million miles away either!

viewtopic.php?f=19&t=27203

[peter]

Thank you for your reply.
I will follow your advice and try to go Saab route.