To drive newly acquired 83 240D I have to sink my foot into the accelerator and release clutch pedal at last second; especially in first gear. Car is weak in fourth gear, have to downshift to third on slight highway incline. Replaced fuel filter already. Don't think its clutch. Where should I start first ;clutch, fuel delivery timing (must adjust?), fuel (strainer in tank), valve or timing chain related?

Have the injection pump timing and the fuel mixture checked to start with. And be sure to have the valves adjusted.

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Benzmac:
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