Someone else can probably help you on the vacuum issue.. but can I suggest the kickdown switch could be stuck down? It happens to me occasionally, and is worth checking just to be completely sure before you start the expensive work!

later

Russ

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190E's:
2.5-16v 1990 90,000m Astral Silver
2.0E 8v 1986 107,000m Black 2nd owner
http://www.maylane.demon.co.uk/190esmall.jpghttp://www.maylane.demon.co.uk/190esmall2.jpg