Well, you CAN, but be prepared for sparks and VERY hot conductors.....

Hard start and poor initial running can be bad glowplugs, but I'd also check the condition of the primer pump and suction hoses to the lift pump -- bad hoses will allow air in, and that will cause problems starting and initial running.

Peter

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1972 220D ?? miles
1988 300E 200,012
1987 300D Turbo killed 9/25/07, 275,000 miles
1985 Volvo 740 GLE Turobodiesel 218,000
1972 280 SE 4.5 165, 000 - It runs!