[Vwdiesel] cold start function

[paul l]

Hello
I recently bought a 91 Volkswagen turbo diesel, that I am told has a 85 turbo diesel engine in it (with a rebuilt head), I am used to working successfully on my previous 86.
The problem I am having is the cold start has absolutely no effect when I use it. The previous owner says it's been that way since he had it (along with the rebuilt head).
When the car is warm the car runs good, but not having the cold start when the engine is cold makes it hard to start, and rough till it heats up.
Any thoughts? I found some info on the pump on the net (kits, blowup diagrams etc.) but it doesn't really mention the cold start.
The lever on the pump moves, but no change in rpm's.
I don't know if this helps, but it's not as fast turning over the engine as my last car ,also same since last owner.
(brand new battery recently)
Thanks for any help you can give
Paul
British Columbia ,Canada