Last Monday night I stayed with a friend's kids and when I went to leave the car (which is a diesel) was very difficult to start. I did get it going and we have a relaly strong battery in it so I was able to really crank it until it finally went.

Usually it's a little hard to get going first thing in the am, but does fine if I'm persisitent on the gas (have to pump a little). After that first time, it's never a problem, though I have to admit, now that it's not starting at all, it's been getting a little harder.

Details are as follows: it turns over fine, good battery. it "chugs" a bit, blows black smoke and acts like it's going to start, but never turns over. From my past old car days it acts like the spark plugs are bad, except, I know this car doesnt' have spark plugs. Could it be a bad glow plug? it acts like it doesnt' want to fire.

then last night, we tried to put the ether to it to get it going (so I could take it to the shop, which was it's next stop anyway) and I'm not getting black smoke or anything. It just won't fire.

Any help would be appreciated. I'm very fortunate that a good friend's husband is a diesel mechanic, but I hate to have to make him hunt for the problem. thanks again.