Long time reader, first time poster--but I know there are plenty of sagacious folks on this forum...

A cold snap just hit, and I forgot to plug in my block heater. Previously, my Benz didn't like to start when it was under about 40 degrees (had to hold the accelerator down after ignition to keep it running for 30 seconds) but now it's 15 out, and I can't get any ignition at all.

Battery is good, starter cranks fine (as far as I can tell). I plugged in my block heater about 6 hours ago, so that should've helped by now...?

I also tested the glow plugs and the relay--I'm getting 12v at the plugs, and the relay works fine. I even jerry-rigged a straight line from 12V+ to the glow plugs, bypassing the relay, and that didn't help either. The glow plug indicator light hasn't been working for a few days--I assumed it was a bad bulb, but maybe there's a systemic issue.

Finally, since I know fuel leaks can be an issue, I used the hand primer pump, and then loosened the bolt on injector 1 and cranked away--no luck. Frankly, I think less fuel was spurting after I tried this then when I used the same trick after replacing the fuel filter a few months ago.

I have not yet pulled the plugs...but again, it feels like 15F thanks to the wind, and the plugs check out electrically, so I'm hoping I don't have to.

Tips, pointers, complaints, or suggestions? Call our hotline at, er...here.