Since part of the original question was never answered.... You should NEVER use starting fluid (ether) in a diesel with glow plugs. The glow plugs run from 900-1100*F and could ignite the starting fluid, not a good thing.... While I'd be hesitant on using it on a normal diesel some like my dad's backhoe has "ether injection" system built in from the factory, but it also does NOT have glow plugs! I heard spray oil works as a less harsh starting fluid but still shouldn't be used with GPs.

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Jeff M.
Mercedes W123 DIY pages are now located here.
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