I'm having some issues with my daughters '88 300TE. It acts as if it is running out of gas but the gauge reads 1/4 full. I'm planning on checking fuel pumps/filter, sender, etc. but thought I would ask around first as far as any tricks or procedures I'm not aware of. How many pumps are there? 1 or 2? Is it like a Volvo w/1 in tank & 1 main pump? If so, does this sound like the in-tank pump? What should my pressure be?

Second, the tranny doesn't seem to want to start in first gear unless I floor it. Is this normal? I haven't driven the car for awhile but do not remember it taking off so laboriously. It also sounds very loud in top gear around 55 mph, as if there is another gear to shift into (2500 rpm @ 55 mph) or that there is slippage, but the noise level could be the result of a known hole in the rear muffler which I'm replacing shortly.

What references do you guys suggest beyond Chiltons, etc.?

Thanks in advance...

K

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1999 E320 (gave to daughter) 250K
1994 F150 (may be the end of its road) 240K
1989 560 SL (Reassembly after paint job) 160K
1986 560 SL (deceased., gave it's life protecting my wife)
1988 300 TE (departed)
1994 945T (still running strong with an upgraded cam) 349K
1986 242Ti (deceased)
1968 GT500KR (under restoration)