Well, actually the engine is there, it's just that it is missfiring (sorry, I couldn't resist). 1981 B21F non-turbo 245. It misses under load, most noticeably going up a hill, seems to cruise at 55-60 without much problem, though. I'm guessing it's a fuel problem, since it seems to be somewhat worse when the tank isn't full. This developed rather suddenly last week. I've checked the plugs and the distributor cap and the timing. If there's a vacuum leak, I haven't been able to find one. Replaced both fuel pumps and filter last year.

Possibly related problem is that after cruising at speed for several miles, when I come to a stop, it takes a few seconds to come to a steady idle, and if I give it gas too soon, it dies. I've had the car for nearly two years and it's always had an occassional "hesitation" when taking off from a stop, but this is much worse, and developed at the same time as the missing. Any suggestions where to start?

And I get to fix another door handle this weekend. This will be third between two 240's. I'm getting pretty good at this one.

I'm planning on taking off the intake manifold and doing the wire harness later this spring, maybe I'll need to move that up? I'm sure the throttle body can use a good cleaning, but the boot is so hard, I can't budge it.

I agree with Simon. Bad in-tank pumps give you problems when your below a half or quarter of a tank. They also give you problems when making sharp turns or going up/down steep hills. Since it is a wagon you should have no problem getting to the in-tank pump & fuel tank floater assembly. Make sure that once you confirm that the in-tank pump needs to be replaced and you start to remove it from the tank you keep the area clear of dirt, gunk, and any other crap you do not want falling into the gas tank. I was able to change the in-tank pump on my 79 262C in about 1 hour. I had to clamp the newer style in-tank pump to the old style floater assembly, replace the hose coming from the intake fuel pump, and testing the wires that run the in-tank fuel pump and fuel gauge. It was a very rewarding expierance and a lot of fun once it was all done. Good Luck!

Sincerely,
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Julio Meza

1979 264GL B27F 127K --> BW55->M46, CLS, IPD Sway, 81+ Dash, Gauges, Flat Hood & E-Codes

1979 262C B27F 163K --> Restoration Project

1984 245DL 216K --> Sport Wagon

2002 Mercedes C320S 33K --> Wifemobile

When I hear stumbling going up a hill I always think of in-tank pump. The other sign is that below a quater tank the engine gets very rough. It may be something to check. Start the car and take the gas cap off. Put your ear to opening and you should be able to hear the whirring of the pump. I always recommend that if anyone is watching speak loudly into the tank as well.
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Simon 80 240 306k 18 years. 'White Lightning'

I'll check that if I can stop laughing!