Location : the 'old' Atomic Auto in Portland,OR.
Blue 9000 CSE now resides in my stable as the auto-trans loaner for/family and visitors
who don't do clutch. Borrowed for this episode.

Where are you located ?
I'm outside Portland, OR and may have some options for you.

How are you dealing with reverse lock out ?

Dennis, Is the basic reinforcement to limit overall flex of the transmission case ? If so would a tie thru the case from side to side be an option ? Thinking about being able to tie a plate on each side thru the case itself with a stud or bolt all the way thru ? - and /or tie across under the case ?...

Dennis, Are all the spare parts in your shop as shiny sanitary as this spare trans case ?
I'm not sure I could even get a used trans this clean.
It's a pleasure to view your process.

Wow ! This may have the most custom work I've seen on an actually useable 99.
Chrome rear spoiler ? I wonder how that was accomplished ?

Hey Drew,
Thank you for update.
Family, friends, and health are first of the priorities.
I hope all is better for all in your circle.
Take care, Bob

Hey, By actually paying attention to who is here I realize you are here in Portland.
I'm pretty sure I have what you need and I've just had several shifter assemblies on the bench
playing with ignition switches.
We've probably contacted here but I don't know you as 'acejed' .
I'm Bob in Scappoose.

Seller didn't post as 'vintage' or 'racing' thus I never saw it.
I don't have the patience to scroll thru all ebay 'SAAB'.
Don't know if I would have gone to $ 4500 - but ?

Oops, that was SeanKHotay looking for wheels.

Chouan - what style steel 4.5 rims are you looking for ?
Seems there have been 4 or 5 different ones ?

Ah - But those impatient viewers don't have their hands out trying to get a feel of how your hands are moving. Or do they stop and rewind to see portions again to better understand the process. Or smile when they see your fabbed hold down finger. - - Or think about your bare knees under the welding ...

What was your cost for the H-engine firewall panel ?
I hadn't even considered that as an option for my 99 resto-mod project.
Do you know if it will clear double V-belt 16V or will you need to run a single ?

Am I seeing correctly that most of the rust has happened from top down ? Unfortunate that you need rust repairs. Most 99's here in the PNW have little rust. Cardboard mock-up - air to the brakes ? If so how will you use the outer air inlets in the air dam ? Consider that if you have any opportunity ...

Drew,
Please add me to your tally.
Bob Dorste Portland, OR.