I just bought an 87 300D in FLA and in hindsight, foolishly drove it 1,200 miles to Cleveland, OH. It made it but, it was slowly loosing power. By the time I got it home, 60 mph was the top speed and it did stop running a couple of times about 30 miles from home. I guess adding more fuel helped keep the algae from completely settling to the bottom of the tank. The tank screen was only a little fouled, but the primary filter was about 80% clogged.
I owned an 83 300SD for six years back in the late 80's and early 90's. I always had it serviced by a good independent shop. Consequently, I was never aware of this common problem.
Despite the inconvenience, I am glad Wierd Beard made it home.
Gotta keep that fuel supply clean!