I have just read through this whole thread, I have a new 2555 hst. Tier 4 with 50hrs. It will not start when it is low 20's or below. I cycle the glow plugs 2-3 times. Battery does not last long either. I then have to put a 400w magnetic heater on the bottom of the block and a 100watt battery charger. Sometimes it takes over an hour to get it started. I just purchased a Zerostart yesterday hoping this will help. I don't think this problem is limited to the max28's. I also was thinking that my oil was to thick.
With the battery not lasting long does it still have the original battery in it and have you messed with the connections?