I agree, it is most likely one of two things...possibly both. Glow plugs (and/or their related circuit) or a valve adjustment. There could be collateral damage though from the seller's use of ether...unless the glow plugs are completely dead.

__________________
Mike Tangas
'73 280SEL 4.5 (9/72)- RIP
Only 8,173 units built from 5/71 thru 11/72

'02 CLK320 Cabriolet - wifey's mid-life crisis

2012 VW Jetta Sportwagon TDI...at least its a diesel

Non illegitemae carborundum.