The needle should float freely. It acts as a plug against the opening in the npzzle face. Fuel pressure lifts it by opposing spring pressure against the needle and fuel is injected. Sruck open needle = streamers - not good.


Try soaking it in carburettor cleaner and work it loose little by little.

Did you ever sort out where your timing is set?

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85 300D turbo pristine w 157k when purchased 161K now
83 300 D turbo 297K runs great. SOLD!
83 240D 4 spd manual- parted out then junked