jetta won't start

[miller87t]

Just found this site. I bought an 86 non-turbo diesel jetta and have been driving it for about 6 months no problems.  I drove it to work 4 days ago and came home in my usual manner. The next morning, it wouldn't start. The weather has been below freezing with low's in the single digits. Today it was in the lower 40's. Thought maybe it might have just been too cold to start, but now I'm not so sure. I've tried a liberal dose of starting fluid, but no joy. Engine turns over with starter, but doesn't seems to want to start. I know very little about diesel engines, having cut my teeth on small block chevy vehicles all my life. Anyone have any insight on what the problem might be?

Thanks,Tim

[Rabbit on Roids]

starting fluid is bad...

if you dont care, then ether away.

but if you love your engine at all, dont do it.

[Vincent Waldon]

If it was able to start when warmer search here for threads on "glow plugs"... great place to start troubleshooting.

And yes, ether is very very hard on diesel engines...best to stay away from it if you can.