1980 240D Speed Questions

[fuzzyedges1974]

I just purchased a beautiful 1980 Mercedes-Benz 240D yesterday (my first!). I know that it is not a fast car by any stretch, however I suspect that I should be getting a bit more performance than I am. I have yet to be able to get it above 55 miles an hour -- and even then, only with help of a downhill incline. I have to traverse a bridge with a mild hill each day to and from work, and I steadily lose speed on the way up (if I hit the hill at 55, I'll be at 40 by the top - dangerously slow for this particular road).

I found a web site that listed the car's top speed as 143 KM/H (about 87mph). I have a hard time believing this car could ever dream of that speed. The engine was completely rebuilt 9000 miles ago, and is, otherwise, in great shape. The only other bit of useful info I can think to add, is that it tends to double-shift going into 2nd and 3rd gears (automatic tranny).

Any advice or information would be greatly appreciated.

 

[TimN]

87 miles per hour is the top speed taken from the manufactures sales literature although I have seen a 240TD manual gearbox version top 100mph.

Check the type and quantity of your ATF.

Check that the butterfly valve is fully opening when the accelerator is depressed.

Bleed the fuel filter using the hand pump in the engine bay.

Check that you are getting a good delivery of fuel

Brakes binding? Will it roll okay?

Check condition of the air filter better replace it anyway

Service/replace your injectors

 

[fuzzyedges1974]

Thanks!

Thanks you so much for the advice! Not only is this my first Mercedes, it is my first Diesel, too. You've given me much to look at, and a good starting point!

Thanks again!