My car runs well most of the time, but it once in a rare while, upon cold starts, stalls when put into drive. Also, maybe related or unrelated, the econ gauge goes to approximately 1/4 of the way down at idle and with the a/c on, it goes almost to 1/2, would this indicate a vacuum leak or what should I look for? Also, how much would this affect performance or economy? The transmission also shifts slightly harsh, I presume from the vacuum issue.

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currently just 1989 300SE 185k miles

i would suspect a vacuum leak. it is possible the car is a little lean as that would make the needle move towards the center, also. good luck, chuck.

any other ideas about this? would it explain the rough shifting and lack of fuel economy I have been having lately?
Thanks,
Ben

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currently just 1989 300SE 185k miles

too hard to tell without an inspection and a vacuum gauge, sorry. good luck, chuck.

Our cars are the same age and I've found some of the plastic vacuum lines brittle, like the fuel pressure regulator hose. Take the air cleaner assembly off and check the vacuum hoses. Get new plastic and rubber hose and replace all of them. I'll be doing this soon, it's rather cold around here at the moment.

I recently replaced my water pump and that was a major PITA.

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Regards

Warren

Currently 1965 220Sb, 2002 FORD Crown Vic Police Interceptor

Had 1965 220SEb, 1967 230S, 280SE 4.5, 300SE (W126), 420SEL

ENTER > = (HP RPN)

Not part of the in-crowd since 1952.

MBDOC, Stevebfl, anyone else have any ideas?

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currently just 1989 300SE 185k miles