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Old 11-21-2010, 11:14 AM
cdavidson cdavidson is offline
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Join Date: Mar 2008
Posts: 15
Need advice on IP repair options.

I have a 1994 S350 TD. A problem has manifested itself with the arrival of cold weather. I pull out of my 60 degree garage into 40 degree ambient temperatures. At first the accelerator pedal feels fine and operates normally. After about a 0.5 miles at 25 MPH, the throttle response becomes "sticky". When I back off the pedal, the engine throttles down very slowly. When I step on the pedal, it feels like it has more resistance and the car suddenly feels very under powered. Shortly after the engine gets up to normal operating temp, the problem becomes much less noticeable or goes away entirely. When the car has been park outside in cold weather, the problem is very pronounced.

After looking through this forum, I think the problem is in the IP (specifically the fuel rack is gummed up). I've checked the linkage and it seems fine. Another symptom is the complete lack of smoke under hard acceleration, which to me suggests fuel starvation (the turbo is boosting).

My question is, what options do I have. Obviously I can go to the one and only local dealership; however, their usual recommendation is first buy a new car, followed by telling me I need a new IP for $2,500.

What about a pump rebuild or purchase of a junk pump? I'm pretty sure there's no miracle additive that will magically clean the pump. I'm reasonably sure removing, disassembling, cleaning and reinstalling the IP is beyond my abilities.

Can anyone recommend a competent mechanic in the northern Illinois or southern Wisconsin area, who could work on this car? I'd drive 200 miles for decent reasonably priced service.
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