You need a multimeter to check for voltage at the glow plugs (free w/ coupon at HF). If you have low compression (worn rings or mis-adjusted valves), it can be impossible to start at very cold temperatures. It took us 30 min w/ "blow-dryer in intake", plus starter fluid to get one guys diesel truck started one winter at Lake Tahoe. Once running, open the oil filler plug (keep a rag to catch oil flings) and see if a lot of "blow by". That indicates bad rings (very expensive). One of my cars shows some puffing at the PCV exit, w/ oil filler closed, but still starts immediately on the coldest days, so some blow-by is acceptable. To change glow plugs easy, get a set of ratcheting box wrenches (Sears ~$35).

Its alive! It is a little warmer today, mid 30's or so. I ran a blow dryer into the intake for a while had my truck jumpered to the new battery and after probably 5 minutes of cranking, it finally came to life. I still don't know the problem, but will go down the list you all have recommended. Anybody know what the part # would be for the special wrench and spacer I need for the valve adjustment? I also found a d2 leak under the car as well as a small coolant leak. Sure wish I had a garage. In the picture, you can see all the soot that came out of the exhaust. It has always done that but not quite the amount you see in the pic. Is that normal?

Thanks

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96 F350 CC, LB, 4x4. 290,000 with around 90,000 on wvo.

82 Mercedes 300d. New to me. 211,000 soon to be on wvo.