Saab 1987 900 Owner's Manual page 39

Catalytic converter
precautions
Use only unleaded fuel to preserve the effi-
ciency of the catalyst. Keep the vehicle in
proper operating condition by observance
of the maintenance schedule outlined
elsewhere in this manual. Failure to do so
will not only resul t in a loss of fuel economy
but could also damage the catalytic conver-
ter.
WARNING!
Malfunctions involving fuel or ignition
systems, resulting in misfire or loss of
performance, may lead to overheating of
the catalyst. Extended idling during cold
weather warm-ups may produce a misfi-
ring condition and vehicles should not be
left unattended. Do not continue to ope-
rate your vehicle in this condition. Have it
checked by your Saab dealer as soon as
possible.
Do not park, idle, or drive converter equ-
ipped cars in areas where dry grass or
other combustible materials can come
into contact with the hot exhaust and be
ignited.
Economical driving
For maximum economy, the Saab 900, like
any other car, needs to be driven moderate-
ly. Avoid unnecessary full throttle accelera-
tion and high engine speeds wherever possi-
ble.
Driving in congested areas and driving with
a roof rack or trailer, all contribute to high
fuel consumption. Excessive idling and
"warming up" the engine also wastes gas.
Use the air conditioner only when necessa-
ry. Winter temperatures and use of winter
tires are other factors that may increase fuel
consumption.
Maintaining your car according to the
recommended maintenance schedule will
help you get maximum fuel economy. Be
sure the engine is tuned to specification, the
battery is fully charged and wheel align-
ment and tire pressures are correct.
Selecting shift points to maintain engine
speeds within the economy range shown on
the tachometer face will also aid in obtain-
ing maximum fuel economy. See also shift
light use on page 33.
Winter driving
1 Condensation in the fuel system is
minimized by keeping the tank full. It is
advisable to occasionally use a gasoline
antifreeze additive (dry gas) to remove
accumulated moisture. Follow manu-
facturer's usage instructions and use
sparingly. Ethanol-based dry gas is re-
commended over methanol-base types.
2 Lock lubricants and antifreeze are
available to prevent door and trunk
locks from freezing in damp, cold
weather. A frozen lock may be thawed
by heating the key. Don't force it.
Starting and driving
37
3 Before driving in winter time, free pos-
sible frozen windshield wiper blades
from the windshield glass. Remove any
snow from the air intake or the pas-
senger compartment at the right rear
corner ofthe hood.
NOTE!
Models with wide profile tires:
Ifwide profile winter tires are not avail-
able 185/65 R15 or
175170
R15 winter
tires (4) may be installed. Winter tires
should be mounted on 5 1/2
X
15 inch
steel or aluminum Saab rims. Be sure to
purchase tires of sufficient load capac-
ity. Your Saab dealer has Saab-ap-
proved winter tires available on Saab
steel rims.
The speed rating of winter tires may not
be the same as that of the original
equipment tires. Do not drive the car
faster than the approved speed rating of
the tires (see also Tires).
4 If regular or studded (check state law)
winter tires are used they should be
mounted on all four wheels. Ordinary
snow chains (avoid clamp-on types)
can be used on both front and rear
wheels. Drive carefully since chains
may scrape against the body on large
bumps or sharp turns.