Ned:

Check engine cranking speed, and get an oil change to Mobil 1 or some other synthetic -- the lower viscosity of the oil cold will help tremendously. Engine MUST turn at at least 100 rpm when starting -- if it doesn't, you need a new starter.

Change your main fuel filter, and check the suction hoses for leaks. If you are drawing in air from leaking hoses, you will have terrible trouble starting. My 220D had leaky hoses when I bought it. Still doesn't start well below freezing, but that is low compression.

Adjust the valves. I cannot overstate the importance of this! If they are tight, you will have cold start problems, and nothing else will fix them.

Peter

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1972 220D ?? miles
1988 300E 200,012
1987 300D Turbo killed 9/25/07, 275,000 miles
1985 Volvo 740 GLE Turobodiesel 218,000
1972 280 SE 4.5 165, 000 - It runs!