Its been 12 to 17 degrees here at nites and both of my cars are diesel...
Besides adding Diesel additive, I'm looking for a more reliable solution to ensure my car starts in the morning.
Someone told me i can use a 10%/90% Gas Disel mix on cold days.
I dont trust anyones advice unless I hear it several times...

I've used redline 85+ winterized for the past 18 years in my '85 300TDT and have never had a problem starting. In northern NY we routinely go below zero for a week at a time and this car is driven every day. Also, i've only had to replace one injector (@150K miles) in this vehicle which I believe is a tribute to MB design and redline additive.

Gasoline -- no.
Kerosene -- yes. See owner's manual for specifics.

You also know about "double glowing" and also about leaving the key in the "glow" position for 30 + seconds AFTER the glow light goes out, don't you?

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Steve
'93 400E

Use your block heater. Under about 15 degrees, only a few diesels in perfect condition will start even with repeated extended glowing. Why tax your starter and engine?

We had 5 below this past weekend in Massachusetts, and I forgot to plug my wagon in. Ran the battery down trying to start it. Did the repeat glow, waited for the relay to click off, etc. Ended up pouring hot water on the block, which worked.

I concluded that the block heater is there for a reason. The next night, I plugged her in, and no problem, started right after the glow light went out. I plan to keep an extension cord with me for trips away from home in the winter.

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Peter
1985 300TD 4-speed 212K
1992 400E 343K
2001 E320 72K

There was al ong thread on this very subject at mbz.org. your area should have their diesel fuel optimized for the conditions in your area. Other than that, few adjustments are needed for temperatures in the teens. I live in North Central WA, and my daily driver (300D) lives outside 20's and teens). It has never failed to start. If you're not sure, plug it in, use extended and multiple glow cycles and a good "real" synthetic oil. Redline, Amsoil, Mobil or Delvac One, or Bardahls. If your car is pre- 1986, a valve adjustment in the fall in preperation for winter (required every 15,000 mi) is also a very good thing.

Chec with your local fuel distributer about their fuel, and if you're not sure, follow the owners manual for instructions on mixing kerosene.

RBM