Im having some problems with the 88 300e 250k km starting now that the cold weather has really hit. the engine requires a fair bit of cranking to get it to start (whcihc is hard on the battery etc.)

tried to get a block heater installed but the mechanic reported the frost plug was tight and might strip if removed. the gas has antifreeze added, last tune up was about 35k Km ago.

any quick suggestions? a farmer told me he puts a lightbulb under the hood to keep things from deep freezing...