As I understand it the problem is not that unusual and is likely due to leaks in the high pressure fuel system. I don't think there is any danger to the engine just an unusual long crank when cold as it gets the fuel pressure high enough that the ECU allows it to start. It is a late '07 motor and has 124k km so about 77k miles on it and runs well otherwise. Faster cranking speeds (from fully charged batteries) do make a difference - thus the idea of keeping the batteries charged. Because I have a solar system on it I can use it to always keep the batteries charged but needed a way to include the chassis batteries which the new interconnect takes care of...