Those are excellent ideas and good advice. Unforunately, I'm in a part of NY that doesn't have any pick-n-pull yards (at least that I've found yet). I'm envious of the folks who have them. I've read sixto's dash removal procedure and plan on using it if needed, but I think that is why I dread the job....no more blissful ignorance--- I'm hoping it's electrical, but will take your advice of jamming the flap open to put off the job for awhile if it is vacuum related. Thanks again for the help.

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-RK
'83 240D, auto, 170,000 miles "Old Blue"
'87 300TD, 140,000 miles