Ford: ford diesel, ford diesel, autolight

Question
"I have a 1999 ford diesel f350. My question is: that even in the summer I have to plug the truck into the house for it to start. If I don't plug it in it is very hard to start and when it does start it smokes and chatters. But as long as I plug it in everything is fine. I have been thinking glow plows but pluging the truck in is for warming the oil. Or at least that what I can remmber.
 Thanks

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Answer
although you plug it in it keeps the coolant warm. and you are right the glow plugs need to be replace.the other thing that goes is the control module they coust about $200.00 to $250.00 from the dealer only.and motorcraft on the glow plugs or autolight both are good.do the glow plugs first.good luck