I have a 1981 300 sd, 150,000 miles. The problem is that I went on a trip thanksgiving and on the way back, It was also alot colder outside than normal as I live in phoenix, The car just sort of died while i running about 60. I pumped the pedal and in a few moments it started running again. Well in about 15 min. the same thing happened except it did not start running again. All I had was a flashlight and I came to the conclusion that the in-line filter only had a little fuel in it. I have a newer primer pump on the car, it is black and you push it to use it. It would not pump any fuel. I took the gas cap off and i ciuld here presure relieving. Then i pumped the pump again and it worked with the cap off.? Anyone know what the problem may be? 1. Is it normal for there to be presure in the fuel tank? 2. Is the primer pump also the fuel pump? #. Would a dirty gas tank screen do this? Thanks for any info.

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1981 300 sd 148000 miles

It's a common problem. The tank vent is clogged. If a vacuum develops in the tank, fuel won't flow to the engine. The vent routes from the top of the tank to the opening in the driver's side rear wheel well. You'll need to snake the line with a flexible spring of some type to get the various debris out of it.

The tank screen is not the issue, however, on vehicles of this age, consider that it's usually on borrowed time.

I do not see any vent line or any opening in the rear wheel well. are you talking about where the wheel is or in the trunk area? Thanks

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1981 300 sd 148000 miles

1984 300d Turbo 145k
The Vent Is Under The Drivers Side In Front Of The Rear Tire
Remove The 2 Inch Small Hose And Clean The Vent

Thanks, I found a bell like rubber fitting on a solid 1/4 inch tube on top off where there is a rubber bushing for the frame maybe. The short hose has been removed I guess if i am at the right place. Thanks

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1981 300 sd 148000 miles

That's it, bell shaped thing. On mine I ran a coat hanger to clear any obstructions, were none.

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83 SD

84 CD