Hard start

Good evening

Can you measure the exact fuel pressure? There is a port on the fuel rail by the power steering pump that you can use.

You can rent a tester at a parts store.

The fact you have to prime the system tells me you have a fuel delivery issue.

Roy

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

Another quick test to try. Turn the key to the on position for a couple seconds, turn it back off. Repeat this two to three times, then try to start the engine. If it now starts up like it should you will want to check the regulator and watch the fuel pressure close while doing the above tests, either the regulator is bleeding pressure off rapidly or there is an issue with the pump control circuit.