a common topic this i'm sure.
the 2l jtd in my scudo starts fine once warmed up but when good and cold it struggles hard. always goes eventually after uncomfortabel 10 or 15 seconds.

what has been done:
- outside temperature sensor was replaced, improved after that bu thas deteriorated.
- glowplugs replaced by me, they didn't need it.
-checked sprung check valve in hp pump inlet as in this thread:
fiatforum.com/ulysse/342528-2003-2-0-jtd-cold-starting-problem was fine.
- had new battery not long ago and was checked adn charged recently

what other things can i check myself without plugging it in to diagnostics?
can anyone give me a logical order to check things in?

(i'm in france and i have to go to fiat if i want to plug it in = pricey)

in above thread he checks pressure from lifter pump in diesel tank, and then replaces fuel filter housing to get new sensor sorted. guess i could go down that route.

U need a good starter motor on these engines in cold weather

yep. good way to check health of starte motor? seems to have no problem turning it over...

Just finished one with same problem this onenot start in cold once started started all day next day not start without easy start replaced all 4 injectors starts fine now