The point of the original Mercedes system is partly to protect the plugs - there's a chance you'll burn them out if you start using them for long than intended.

If you are having a rough time getting the engine started have a look at the condition of the engine oil (fresh oil always helps), the health of the starter (a rebuilt starter spins faster) and if necessary consider fitting a block heater.

I feel compelled to add that In most (weather) situations in the Netherlands I've never had trouble starting my OM617 (or any other vehicle)

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1992 W201 190E 1.8 171,000 km - Daily driver
1981 W123 300D ~ 100,000 miles / 160,000 km - project car stripped to the bone
1965 Land Rover Series 2a Station Wagon CIS recovery therapy!
1961 Volvo PV544 Bare metal rat rod-ish thing

I'm here to chat about cars and to help others - I'm not here "to always be right" like an internet warrior



Don't leave that there - I'll take it to bits!