Hello, My name is Duane from Northern California. I'm a 2 time Saturn owner, my first Saturn was a brand new 1998 Silver Plum SW1 I called the 'Eggplant'. I loved that car very much that since I'm retired now, last month I bought a 2002 SL2 for only $500. but a lot of work has to be done to it. I accomplished numerous of the minor repairs, now for the major repairs, first will be the tranny which bangs when it shifts gears. I know a tow truck driver who was a Saturn mechanic at a Saturn dealership before they went out and he said he can fix it by just doing some adjustments on the tranny. Then the front wheel bearings. then hopefully enjoy driving it for a loooong time.

 

Welcome, O one devoid of a foot digit.....

I believe the input shaft nut has worked its way loose.
Replace (if you can find a new one) or tighten back to spec).
These S car auto trannys have a horrible record with input shaft nut and valve body issues. Rebuilt valve bodies can be had off eBay. I'm sure some of the other members can steer you towards reputable sellers should the need arise.

Stick around and enjoy the show.

 

Welcome!

 

Thank you, I'll have to google the input shaft nut and checkout the specs like you mentioned. Yes I lost a toe on a motorcycle accident.

 

Thank you 02 LW300

 

Do you know the cause of the issues for the new one you got for $500 dollars?

Was that natural wear and tear, or was it being tortured?

 

Slam shifting is part of owning an S series with an A/T.....eventually

Wheel bearings wear out....eventually

I will guess minor repairs were wear and tear; I think the slam shifting brought the selling price down to $500.

Yes/no, 9Toe?

(Sorry to hear about the toe in all seriousness--I thought it was an inside joke or something)