I didn't see any mention of the year. I am familiar with the 82 and 83 240D's for I've had similar problems. In the fuel system there are three filters. One at the tank (strainer type) which screws into the tank bottom. Second is the replaceable white filter which connects to the lift pump, and the third is the spin on filter just prior to the IP. Fuel flow on this car is by gravity. On mine there is no fuel pumps either inline or tank mounted.

Suspect either bad fuel in tank or blocked strainer.
Suggestion, use a separate container type fuel tank as a test. Connect a fuel line from this container to the lift pump filter. Then connect a separate return line to this same container. Try running the engine using clean fuel. Also, there may be air in the line from the IP to the injectors. Brake open a fuel line at the injector to make sure that as you pump the primer, there is fuel being delivered to the injectors.

Lastly, you mentioned the the glow plugs aren't working. You'll probably need to fix this issue, for the engine won't start without the chambers heated.