300 TE problems - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

rjk · #1 08-17-2004, 08:16 AM

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

stevebfl · #2 08-17-2004, 09:16 AM

After chassis # A368937 the car has two pumps. Before that number (I'm guessing you are before) it would have one. No pumps in the tank as MB gavity feeds their pumps.

Fuel pressure readings are the only way to know.

If your trans starts in 2nd then it probably was meant to. Again depends on the years.

The MB CD is the first line of data for that car, aside from this site.

#3 08-17-2004, 11:37 AM

that transmission starts in 2nd when you have it 'd' or '3' i believe. when you put the motor in '2' it will start in 1st. there is a mod for the trans to get it to start out in 1st all the time, but its a pain in the ass. also the european trans have that mod from the factory. later

love vance