I think that is your problem. Very old school with engines says it it sparks and gas gas it must fire. It may not run efficient, it may not run at all, fut at leas it will fire. So if the engine does not fire only two things can be: no fuel, or no ignition (on four-stroke it might be bad timing on valves).

For connecting a cable I used glow extension cable like this one:
[link=http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXBC35&P=7]Model Products Head Lock Remote Single[/link]

I just found something. [link=http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXSP09&P=M]Traxxas Lead Wire Glow Plug T-Maxx[/link]. Would it work?

As for the turning the prop I use heavy padded leather glow. Regardless if I'm turning APC, Mejzlik or wooden prop. All of them are painful. For preventing kickback I never turn the prop over the top. Doesn't matter if ignition or glow plug is on or off. As a rule I alway flip the prop like I would want to start it. For flipping I don't press hard against the compression (like trying it out). I turn the prop ad when I feel a little resistance from the compression (what means both ports: exit and transfer) are closed I don't turn the prop further, I flip it.

And the last important safety note: Always be prepared for the engine starting backward. Have a plan and be ready to kill the engine immediately.