FRONT SUSPENSION
The Saab 99 inherited its front suspension layout from the Saab 96, although dimensions were different and no parts were interchangeable between them.
It is independent, with asymmetric, unequal length upper and lower a-arms (wishbones), coil springs and telescopic dampers.
From m73 models, the lower spring seats were pivoted, to prevent the coil springs from deforming under compression.
REAR SUSPENSION
Beam axle with lower trailing arms, upper leading arms, and a panhard rod. Coil springs and telescopic dampers.
– As of m75 models, the body attachment point for the panhard rod was changed, and the brake hoses were routed differently.
– As of m79 models, the lower trailing arms have a different attachment point for the damper. An early damper has pin bolts in both ends, but late dampers has an “eye” at the lower end. All bushing dimensions were changed too, exept for the panhard rod and upper damper mount.
– As of m80 models, the track-width was increased by 1 cm.
– As of m82 models, the wheelbase was shortened by 8 mm.
FRONT HUB ASSEMBLY
Over the years, the Saab 99 came with three different front hubs.
– The first one (m69-m74) had a two-piston fixed brake caliper, and a tiny drumbrake inside the disc, for handbrake.
– The second one (m75-m81) got a single piston floating caliper, that also was operated by the handbrake cable. The wheel bearings were pressed directly onto the outer driveshaft, and the hub bolted to the driveshaft
– On the third one (m82-m87), the wheel bearings were pressed onto the hub, and the (fully floating) driveshaft inserted into the splined centre hole of the hub and secured by a nut. This construction was 2 Kg lighter than the previous one. Each side! On this hub assembly, the driveshaft can be removed separately.
All front hub types use the same balljoints. The hub assemblies (together with its respective driveshaft) are interchangeable between all models.
My m78 99 now has the late type hub/driveshaft from an m86 90. A hub/driveshaft assembly from a 900 will also fit a 99.
REAR HUB
Two different rear hubs were fitted.
– Pre m82 models had renewable, adjustable tapered roller bearings. To adjust, turn the large center nut.
– From m82 and onwards, non adjustable ball bearings were used, and the whole hub has to be renewed, when the bearings are worn. The large center nut does NOT adjust the bearings.
