Apparently filling the reservoir pretty full wasn't doing the job - had to fill it up to the neck until the overflow hole and then pumping it until all air was out - that did the trick - I'm back in business now.

Thx for the quick responses.

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1987 Mercedes 300SDL; SOLD
1985 Mercedes 300D; SOLD
2006 Honda Pilot - wife's ride; 122K;
1995 Toyota Land Cruiser - 3X locked; 182K