Saturn SL

1999 Saturn SL Engine   

The car wont start on most mornings, there is not even a click when i turn the ignition switch but a hour later it starts fine, the hose coming from the engine to the air filter blows some smoke as well, whats going on?

Do the dash lights come on, as they normally do-- when the no-start condition occurs? What about the headlights, heater, etc? Also pay attention to the security light, does it behave differently when the car won't start?

Check the hose for a crack or loose connection.

1993 Saturn SL Drive Train / Driveline   

replace clutch

Wow! Some one is still awake!
Reccommend a $15 Haynes shop manual, as it goes in great depth as to the procedure, several pages.
But to simplify it,these are basic steps:
Disconnect and remove battery and aircleaner housing.
Jack up car at least 18" and support well.
Remove frt wheels, and large axle nut.
Remove/separate lower balljount, swing spindle/hub aside,
Remove front drive axles.
Unbolt/remove starter.
Remove bolts that attach trans to engine.
Support engine, remove trans mounts.
Separate trans from engine 6-8"
Remove clutch assy and flywheel.
Get flywheel resurfaced.
Install new clutch.
Reassemble in opposite steps.
OR get a shop to do it (about $350 labor)

Thanks for your response!

If you don't mind, just to make sure we're on the car, I'm referring to a 1993 Saturn SL, 4 door, L4 - 1.9L DOHC, 5th number of VIN is 7. This is a transverse mounted engine w/FWD.

In the Saturn manual it has you drop the whole engine on its carriage -- a monster job! -- but you're indicating that might not be necessary, correct?

I only need to pull the transmission away from the engine 6 - 8 in. to get at the clutch and there will be room to do this w/the engine in place, correct?

I've done clutches before but not on a transverse mounted engine/FWD. The manual made it into a monster job that I've been dreading but what you're describing is MUCH simpler.

Any special seals that I'll need to replace w/removing the axles? I know to not tear the boots - can the axles be removed w/o disturbing them?

Thanks for the info.

Jim

Seals should be ok.You should replace seal at rear of crankshaft because its easy to do then, even if not leaking.
Dropping the subframe not difficult, thats how I do automatic transaxles which are bulkier.