I think the oil cap deal is just a coincidence. I really think the problem was lack of fuel/air in the lines.

here is some video i shot right when i figured out what the problem was. i am 100% sure it is not related to air in the lines.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTjvO5HS7qM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9jqvWW3Br4

Well, huh. That's pretty conclusive.

How about this: open up your air cleaner and pry the little tabs up on the top of the trap. Make sure it's clean in there and that air can flow from the breather on top of the cam cover all the way to the air cleaner unobstructed.

I also noticed that the glow plug relay light on your dash isn't coming on.

By the way, I hope you feel better, that sounds like a nasty cold.

Had a simular problem with my old gal. Would only start for 2-3 sec. and shut off. It was a accident that I took off the cap. My problem was that the previous owner had put a after market intake and rerouted the breather to a "dip stick looking tube" that goes towards the bottom of the block. replaced with the OEM intake, now runs like a charm. check the tube going to the air cleaner, if you pull that instead of leaving the cap loose you won't get the oil mess!!!