Happy winter everyone.

I hate to ask this question again, however it seems my 1985 744gle does not like cold mornings. (Canadian cold ie: -20C and beyond) Ignition system is good with new plugs in May. All fuel pumps are good, new filter and tank pump within 8mos. I replaced the harness 3 weeks ago so its good. I replaced ECT last Feb. and TB, vacuum leaks, and other such "usual suspects/maintenance" has been done. The problem is that below -15C it won't start. It turns over and I get the odd sputter but that's it. If I plug in the block heater for 20-30 mins then it starts. I do know that my starter is not in tip top shape but it is not NFG yet. My question: could it be the starter if it starts and runs fine after plugging in for a few mins or is it just that my brick is old and tired (312,000kms)? Maybe I am barking up the wrong tree, all F/B appreciated as usual, take care all.

I think Fabian meant base line Fuel pressure. If you have no way to measure it, I have 2 ideas:

1) Take the vacuum hose off the Fuel Pressure Regulator if it smells gassy, or gas runs out, the FPR is shot. If no sign of gas, leave the hose off (plug it with something).

2) See if it starts better with the hose off, which "forces" the FPR to raise the fuel pressure by 2 or 3 psi (not sure how much). The open hose fitting simulates Wide Open Throttle, which causes (a good) FPR to raise the fuel pressure for acceleration.
--
Bruce Young,
'93 940-NA (current)
'80 GLE V8 (Now gone)
'83 Turbo 245
'73 142 (98K)
'71 144 (track modified--and still here)
New 144 from '67 to '78
Used '62 122 from '63 to '67

Check your base line oil pressure, i know it has had problems at really low cold starts. if it is a turbo i can telly ou how to change it but your is not. Check that out.

If the engine turns over at acceptable rpms, then the starter and battery are fine. Look elsewhere, likely in the ignition system.

Your temperature sensor might be faulty, This could be found on the right side of the engine right underneath the throttle body . I know mine as faulty and it cause me on hell of a headache trying to start every morning. I am out in the Durham area in Ontario.
Best of luck