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alarm out of test mode?

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S

sp53

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Well I fell into this time. I cannot get this 93 9000 Saab to start with the key. I can get it to turn over with a remote start at the solenoid. The vehicle has an aftermarket solenoid mounted on the firewall; perhaps for easy access or the starter solenoid itself has failed. I think the no key start is connected to the alarm and not a faulty ignition switch, because the previous owner has fiddled with the alarm for some reason and the manual states the engine will not turn over if the alarm is in its test mode. I am fine with leaving it disconnected, but my fear is the alarm is the reason why the key does not work. I plugged the alarm in and tried to shut it off at the door, but no joy. Does anyone know of a way to bypass that system or get the alarm out of test mode? When I bought the car I saw the owner try and start it with a weak battery and it did turn over with the key? I sent him an email to ask if there is some trick or something.
Steve
 
Normally the aftermarket alarms will be spliced into the wiring coming from the ignition switch. I have not worked on a 9000 for years, but if the key is in the dash it will be easier. Find out where they spliced the wires in. There will usually be a relay spliced in that connects the circuit from the key to the solenoid. Disconnect the wires from the relay (usually terminals 30 and 51), and join them back together. You may have to remove the 300 yards of extra wiring crammed in during the alarm install. But first, why not take a test light and check and see if the signal is going from the key to the solenoid?? (Sorry, it IS a british car forum...) In most British cars, the trigger wire for the solenoid is white with a red trace. No earthly idea what it is on a SAAB. But if you find the original trigger wire, the color code should match up the cut and spliced wire by the key switch. I find, in most cases, the best thing to do is to remove the alarm, restore all the factory wiring, and it should all work.
 
The alarms in these things are stock, but I figured it out. You advice is excellent and I was starting to think some of those thoughts. Again thanks Jesse it is nice to know that there people out there that will help.
Steve
 
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