Thank you both.

I'm turning the key 100 times to the on position which is supposed to activate the glow plugs but I'm sure they arn't working (plugs, relay, something). After 100 turns I'm then going all the way to the start position and it cranks.

I'm not sure if this is true but I've heard turning the key also activates the fuel pump so I was thinking if there's air in the line the 100 key turns is forcing the fuel through the lines which MIGHT explain why it has to crank for so long before it fires. Any thoughts on this becasue I'm baffeled why I have to turn the key so many times assuming it's not really doing anything for the glow plugs (like I mentioned, the engine heater does heat up the block and help it start).

I think when you turn the key you're supose to hear a clicking noise; I don't get that clicking noise.