Hi everyone. I am new to the Mercedes world. I just drove home a 1985 300d. It has 93k and just a little rust. I think I got a good deal for $2k. Anyways It has been sitting for about 8 months, but starts up and rides nice. Does real well at highway speeds, but around town in stop and go traffic I think something is lacking. I don't expect his car is a power house, but it is very sluggish to start and pick up speed. I really got to get on the the throttle starting out. This may be normal, but it seems like it is restricted. Is this something I should try? Does any one have any idea's for me to check or any other suggestions? I thank all in advanced.

 

Well I cleaned the banjo fitting and tube. I also changed out both fuel filters and the air filter. I also put in some clean fuel with a additive and cleaner. I noticed a better smoother run, but still pretty hesitant on take off. What should I try next?

 

I would check your throttle linkage and make sure you don't need to replace your accelerator pivot mount located on the firewall, they can break down over time and cause your linkage to work incorrectly. Also I would have a shop check and make sure the linkage is adjusted properly so your getting full throttle. Since it has been sitting for a while it wouldn't be a bad idea to clean the tank strainer in the bottom of your fuel tank also.

 

I was going over it again today. I checked the throttle linkage and even the slightest tap results in movement at the top. I was close to taking the vale cover off today and checking the timing chain tension and adjusting the valves. I drove it to golf today in the afternoon and noticed a little improvement. Im thinking the fuel additive I put in may be helping along with the new filters and cleaning out years of gunt. I am going to do a purge tomorrw night and I think a valve job this weekend. thanks for the advice though, I will check anything I can. I want to get familiar with the car. I have a big ford excursion diesel so I am no stranger to diesel , just the mercedes format.