Question:
Why would a diesel lose power after running for twenty minutes?
Jodie B
2008-10-24 13:31:03 UTC
I have a 1978 Mercedes Benz 300CD (diesel) that is losing power during my commute to and from work. After being on the freeway for twenty minutes the engine starts to feel like it's struggling and starving. If I slow down to forty, it's fine. However, when I get back up to cruising speed (between fifty-five and sixty) it starts to struggle again. Why? Just note, I've checked the fuel and air filters and the vacuum pump recently gave out (no power assist on the brakes and the engine won't shut itself off without manually "choking" it), which I have to rebuild (I've ordered the kit). Is it possible that it's water condensation? It's been bitterly cold here, recently.
Three answers:
2008-10-24 13:56:46 UTC
Wow, that really sounds bad. Seems as if something is blocking the air intake.
What to do?
2008-10-25 01:40:50 UTC
When you say you checked the fuel filter, what did you do to check it? My guesses are these. If you have a lift pump to the injector pump, it could be getting tired. If not, the fuel filter is the next most likely culprit. You may have an air leak in a fuel line or fitting that will allow the pump to bring up just so much fuel.
piggybackhauler
2008-10-24 20:41:59 UTC
injector pump


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