I have an '83 sd with 255k miles on it and recently developed a problem when trying to accelerate. Especially when it's cold, and in most any gear, as I press the pedal to acccelerate, it seems to hesitate or jerk, then catches, then jerks or hesitates again. This only happens at lower speeds. On the highway, it does just fine and never happens. Generally, the car is a dog until it gets going and the turbo never seems to really kick in. YEsterday for some reason, it happened less than usual. I've changed both in line filters--haven't touched the gas tank filter--and the transmission doesn't seem to be the problem. PRoblem developed after I loaned it to my son, who ran out of fuel a couple of times and generally kept the tank nearing empty, I presume. When I sit and rev it, the engine DOES NOT hestitate or show any signs of not getting sufficient fuel. IN fact, it's as smooth as can be. Thoughts?

I'm not expert, but I'd start with a new transmission filter and fluid. because you said it seems to run fine in the drive way. I'd also try Diesel Purge. http://dieselgiant.com/injectorcleaning.htm Because it can't hurt.

Nik

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Just for grins, bleed the fuel system, up to the injectors.