Check for a leaking fuel line, too -- under suction it will leak air in.

I think the sending unit and in-tank filter are accessable by removing the tray under the first aid kit in the rear package shelf. There is a fine mesh filter on the end of the pickup line.

Most likely you will need to have the tank cleaned -- sounds like it is full of crud.

Peter

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1972 220D ?? miles
1988 300E 200,012
1987 300D Turbo killed 9/25/07, 275,000 miles
1985 Volvo 740 GLE Turobodiesel 218,000
1972 280 SE 4.5 165, 000 - It runs!