OK now that I started this question I am beginning to second guess myself in thinking maybe the mechanic was wrong and I could diagnose this, without removing injection pump. Maybe not.

So I first was concerned with the pump receiving fuel, and currently there is strong flow of fuel to the pump.

that being said what could be wrong with the pump given the circumstance of this thing not wanting to go over 30mph.

could this be the Vaccuum shutoff issue? is it possible it is not returning all the way cause it is seized? possibly acting against the linkage, creating a stop point.

Also do the non-turbos have an ALDA? there is a similar style piece on top of my pump. curious if it has the same role.

any thoughts?

what are some things to just double check on the pump or car before I pull the pump?

any advice is much appreciated. Thanks!