I have run out of fuel (car kills), twice now when the gauge shows 1/3 to 1/2 full. After adding a gallon and getting to a fuel station, only 10-12 gallons are needed. I brought it to my "no longer" trusty mechanic, who replaced a "float", but no change. I get only about 275-300 miles before it will kill on me.

So, it seems I am running out of fuel with plenty of fuel in the tank? Does this seem possible, is there something that could be stopping the flow of fuel with a third of a tank remaining?

1991 300D turbo.

WJJ,

Take off the fuel hose coming from the bottom of the fuel where the hose connects to the steel fuel line. The fuel should run out freely. If it doesn't, the strainer in the tank could be plugged with algae or dirt.

If the strainer is plugged, the tank must be drained and the strainer removed, cleaned and replaced.

Another possibility is that your line to the fuel pump is leaking and air is being pushed into the fuel line by atmospheric pressure and not enough fuel is getting to the engine.

P E H

Thanks for the info, P E H, where is the strainer, how do I get to it?

WJJ,

I'm not familiar with a 190D (unless it is one from 1964) but if it is similar to my 300SD, the strainer is in the bottom of the fuel tank where the fuel line comes out of the tank. The metal fitting on the end of the rubber fuel line screws into the bottom of the strainer assembly.

If you are lucky, the strainer will come out by turning the 17mm or 19mm hex on the fuel line fitting. If not remove the fuel line and a Vice Grip might turn the ~50mm hex nut on the bottom of the strainer to screw it out.

P E H

Also, when you get under ½ tank, take the fuel cap off and see if you hear a vaccum or pressure release while doing it. It may be that your tank vent line is clogged.

Thanks guys for the advise, I'll try to solve my problem this weekend!

WJJ,

If the fuel runs out in a steady stream with the fuel cap off, replace the fuel cap and see if it slows the fuel stream. If it does, phantoms may be right about a plugged fuel tank vent.

NOTE: It may take a while after replacing the cap to affect the flow because it takes a while for the vacuum to form in the tank.

Good luck. Let us know what you find.

P E H

I'm not too sure about the W201 chassis, but could this be swapped supply and return lines?

__________________
Rick Miley
2014 Tesla Model S
2018 Tesla Model 3
2017 Nissan LEAF
Former MB: 99 E300, 86 190E 2.3, 87 300E, 80 240D, 82 204D Euro
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