ChicagoFX(993)

So I got the dreaded SAI code a few days ago! I reset the light using my ODBII scanner and it hasn't come back on in the last couple days. Anyone think I can save myself some trouble by just replacing the check valve?

The car has 96K on it and has already had the SAI cleaned out at least once, possibly twice (I have ALL service records of the car as it was my dad's before it was mine), but I don't know if the check valve was ever replaced...

993inNC

have you driven more than 60 miles since the shut off? If not it'll probably come back on. You may get away with the valve only replacement, but don't hold your breathe
Do you have emissions inspections?

ChicagoFX(993)

Yes, I just registered the car here in IL. So there is no telling when I will have to go in. They send a letter in the mail.

And I have not driven it for 60 miles. This weekend I am driving about 300 miles roundtrip so we'll see what happens. Maybe if I beat the snot out of it I'll clear it all out. But I'm pretty sure that's not how it works.

993inNC

Ah 300 miles. As a "trick" if you have the time (and this has worked a few times for me). first find out tomorrow what the registration process is, if you need an OBD2 check or do they "sniff" as well. If no sniff, then disconnect the battery, wait a while, reconnect and drive your 300 miles. I usually keep it at 80 mph or better (and as steady as poss.). If no CEL, go to the nearest check station when you get back and have it inspected. I have done it a few times and it works without fail and with most if not all readiness codes reset and I have no cats ). If it works it'll give you time to figure out what you're going to do next and buys you at least a year to do it otherwise most states have referee processes to go thru to waive the test, but you pay for it!

24FPS

fwiw: i'd change the check valve (though it's probably baked on there) & run some techron thru while givin' it an italian tune up on yer 300mile drive...

cel lights up & i'd find a great shop for the job... fwiw: i'd do some upgrades while in there make a negative a positive.

96k & nothing until now??? damn, that's good.


bol

ChicagoFX(993)

Oh there was plenty before this. I can tell from the service records. It's all good though, I will make sure to go ahead and do a couple other things in there as well.

I have some exhaust flutter, so I may just end up ordering RSRs as well as getting the SAI replaced

I'm so spoiled now b/c I used to work on my Audi on a lift, I just don't want to go back to jackstands (we moved)...but this time maybe I will.

mborkow

out of curiousity, what year is you car?

ChicagoFX(993)

1997 Carrera S

epj993

What scanner code did you get? If it was a clogged port code, you'll probably get another CEL.

ChicagoFX(993)

p1410 and p1411...at least I think those are the two.

Funny thing is, they clicked on as I was driving home from work and the motor was already plenty warm, I was in 1st gear cruising at about 3k rpms (in traffic here in Chicago) not at startup.

Lorenfb

"fwiw: i'd change the check valve (though it's probably baked on there) & run some techron thru while givin' it an italian tune up on yer 300mile drive..."

The last two (Techron & I.T) mentioned will have no effect.
Check here for more SAI info:

www.systemsc.com/pictures.htm

mborkow

that's how mine came on also. i wish you better luck than i had.

vjd3

Did anyone ever build that little circuit to get around this emissions problem until it becomes an actual running problem? I seem to recall someone from Texas did it successfully but the thread just died after awhile.

HeelToe

I have a 97 that had the same issue about a month ago. I was able to clear out one side with carb cleaner and an air hose. Unfortunately, the other side wouldn't budge.
Rather than performing a whole top end rebuild on an otherwise perfectly good engine, I ran a (heat resistant) hose from the check valve to 2 bungs that I welded into the exhaust just before each catalyst and the SAI CEL is gone FOREVER.

vjd3

Brilliant!