Glow Plug/CEL Lights On - How Long Can I Delay Repair?

[christyb]

I have a 1999 e300 TD, about 130,000 miles.

On Thursday after starting up as normal, the Glow Plug and CEL lights came on. I drove about six miles that day.

Yesterday, it started "clunky" and then the GP and CEL lights back on. I drove about 5 miles and then parked. After a couple of hours when it was time to go, it started up without the "clunk", GP & CEL lights on, and drove home 5 miles.

I know it needs to go into the shop but how long can I delay this repair?

Tomorrow I have to drive about 20 miles, let it rest, then another 20 and let it rest and then 40 back home.

Am I setting myself up for being stranded tomorrow?

Am I setting myself up for a much larger repair?

Can I milk this but drive differently (slower speeds, etc...)?

I'm sure to some of you this is an extraordinarily stupid question, but I know 1/2 more than nothing about cars!

Thanks!
Christy