When vaporized, diesel requires about 1/2 the amount as vaporized gasoline in air (by volume) to be flammable.The thermostart could be installed in the air silencer, AKA air filter, housing. You will probable need to weld a nut to it to thread the thermostart into. From what I understand the smoke/vaporized fuel is extremely flammable and acts like starting fluid, but don't quote me on that.
My old boat had a Volvo Penta 2002 in it. No glow plugs. I sail in the winter as long the water isn't solid. It always stated, if I used the correct starting procedure. I read the manual!