thanks for the info on the relay. I did check the archives prior to
posting and found some info on the relay however with many, poor acceleration episodes were a symptom that seemed associated with the relay.
not more than five minutes passed between the engine dying
on the freeway shoulder and my tapping the fuel pump
with a tool resulting in the car starting up again.

the fuel pump does make a rather high pitch 'buzz' which i
don't think is normal. Audible from outside the car's rear.

Any further opinions are appreciated.

I won't discount the relay.

THANKS

__________________
1979 300D 220 K miles
1995 C280 109 K miles
1992 Cadillac Eldorado Touring Coupe 57K miles SOLD
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1979 240D 140Kmiles (bought for parents) *SOLD.
SAN FRANCISCO/(*San Diego)
1989 300SE 148 K miles *SOLD