Hi folks

A little early to be raising this issue but winter IS coming. Last winter, I had a lot of trouble starting my 87 300D last winter and got stuck several times. Plugged in, it starts great of course! But I can't stay plugged in at work or at the airport.

I have tried flushing the system with BG cleaner and filters and purges. I haven't messed with the glow plugs yet but may just switch them out.

The symptoms are:

When cold, I cycle the key 3-6 times (to allow the glow plugs to warm up), then the car will fire up and run for about 10 seconds and die, then I can't for the life of me get her to start again ... almost like flooded in gasoline cars.

Would apprciate some pointers on what to check or replace. This is my winter vehicle .. does awesome in the snow .. but I can't keep getting stranded. If there are locals that are willing to help, I'd be willing to pay for your time/expertise on this! Love the car but I am kind of a newbie to diesels.

Thanks!

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Current cars:
1987 Mercedes 300D
1997 Turbo Nissan Maxima
2001 Lexus IS300 2JZ-GTE & 6 speed swap
2002 BMW E46 M3 - done ... needs engine management
2005 E55 AMG - mods started starts with a pulley and goes on from there!!!