Can jumpstarting a diesel damage glow system? (please do not "disappear" this thread)

[1985 300SD Sady]

What is the weather like?

With a decent engine spinning at a decent speed (at least 100rpm's) it should start without glowplugs. That is if it not too cold out.

you say you used starting fluid, and it ran fine... That point me more towards a fuel problem.

Did you follow my write up in your last thread? Did you replace the primer pump yet?

[timmyd]

Originally Posted by DieselCJ

You can get an idea if some plugs are working by seeing how much your lights dim when you turn the ignition key to "glow plug" position.

If you have an infared thermometer shoot the base of the plug, if pencil style and see if it is hot.
If it is the loop style, shoot the #1 wire and if its hot you know at least 4 of them are working. (I usually spit on the wire and make sure it is fizzing.)
Good luck!

[Jimmy Joe]

Thank you all very much for your tips and advice.
I got out the multimeter and discovered that 3 glow plugs were not working at all, the other two are dubious. Replaced two of the for sure bad ones, and got her to fire. Haven't ruled out fuel troubles compounding the issues, and have not changed the primer pump yet. (i just mail ordered one).
So, at least she runs again. though a much harder start, than three days ago...Really strange how it all started, just by leaving the lights on...strange coincidence. Just goes to show that things are not always what they seem on these cars. I still can't help but wonder if all that attempted jump starting lead a few plugs to an early demise.

In any event, thanks much for you support here folks. I was at wits end.