Just picked up a 1981 300D with 110,000 miles original engine (I hope). At the resellers lot, they had no problem (naturally) starting it many times for me--and I started it also and drove it home--about 35 miles. Had it garaged for about 1 week now and when I went to start it today, I am struggling. The temp. here today is about 50F--cooler by at least 15 degrees than when I purchased it. I am wondering if that is causing me problems. First off though, I am entirely new to starting a diesel, so my initial question has to do with 'how to start' the vehicle properly. By the reseller I was told to follow these steps to start: Press the glow plug button and hold it for 10 seconds, then crank it up while pressing the accelerator about 3/4 of the way down. As soon as you hear it start, release everything. Well I tried that and have had no luck--almost fired once, but then it didn't hold when I released the accelerator and glow plug--it died and I think I smelled burning rubber. Any thoughts on what I may be doing wrong, or any suggestions as to what might be wrong with it. I have the Haynes manual--just got it this week and couldn't find any info on how to start correctly. Any pointers would be greatly appreciated, Thanks in advance, Archie