Absolutely....a hi-amp alternator is not a cure-all. There are many elements related to poor cold starting discussed at length in this forum....bad glow plugs, poor compression, tight valve clearances, too heavy weight oil, poor fuel delivery timing, carbon buildup in prechambers, bad injectors, bad battery, weak starter, poor engine ground, etc. etc. etc.

In my case, I addressed all of those things, and still had poor starts thinking that the battery was draining (possible short somewhere?). In installed a volt meter in place of the ash tray, and always felt the alternator was fine, with operating voltage aroung 12.5 to 13.5 v. But I always had problems with poor batteries....not enough power to crank the starter fast when cold. In hindsight, I realize that I had been driving around always with a partially-charged battery...this is just fine when weather is warm..the car will still start like a tiger. But with the first very cold day, no start because the starter just doesnt go! I realize in hind sight, that the alternator was the problem, even though the alternator dash idiot light never came on. The 120 amp alternator has made a world of difference. But certainly, all the other factors related to cold starting (discussed in another current very interesting string here) must be addressed...a hi amp alternator by itself will not cure all ills related to poor cold starts.

Mark

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1984 300TD Wagon, 407,800 mi (current daily driver)
1985 300DT Sedan, 330,000 mi (gone to that great autobahn in the sky)