What is the history of the engine? How many miles? Did it have regular oil changes? Did it ever run out of oil? If it had a good maintenance history, I would not tear into timing device to look for worn parts as it is bathed in oil and does not wear much unless abused.

To eliminate air in fuel as an issue, replace the cigar hose with a temporary clear pvc tubing. Use 1/4 " id, soak ends in boiling water and stretch over the barbs, no hose clamps needed since it is a tight fit. You should see a solid stream of fuel in the clear line. If the fuel is foamy or you see bubbles, you have to find and fix the source of air intrusion.

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85 300D turbo pristine w 157k when purchased 167,870 July 2025
83 300 D turbo 297K runs great. SOLD!
83 240D 4 spd manual- parted out then junked