i started this morning with no block heating .. altho it was not as cold today as the last few:p about 23 deg F .. it even went to a downright tropical 30 deg f this afternoon !

i agree with spo - cycle the glow plugs a couple of times before
cranking and i'll add one- the last cycle (3rd) wait 30 seconds after the light on the dash goes out then crank. keep the starter going a tiny bit after you think the engine is firing. adjust rpms to 1000 with the throttle for about a minute - then drive. this will help on your first start of the day - should be clear sailing after that.

all is assuming you have good glow plugs and a strong battery. good luck.
bob
(freezing solid in CT)

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1984 300D Turbo - 231k....totalled 11/30/07 RIP