Originally posted by oilburninokie
"If it doesn't start within 5 seconds of cranking you have a problem. Do not continue cranking. You may overheat the starter"

Actually, the owner's manual for my '84 300D says to hold the pedal to the floor and crank until it the engine is running if temp is below freezing. If temp is below zero (F) manual calls for pumping the pedal three times, then holding to the floor and running starter - without interruption - until the engine is running.

Seems abusive, but it works. Just crank until the engine outruns the starter and then hold light throttle until it's running smoothly.

f