Hard to start

Do a fuel pressure test on it with key on in run but not started. you should see 55-62 psi. if it bleeds down quickly pinch off the return line halfway , if it still leaks down you have a fuel pressure regulator problem. The test port is near the distributor.

Here is a guide to help you: https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

Jim

I have the similar problem with my truck. When it is put on the pressure gauge it will go up to 65 psi then drop off. The fuel pump was replaced a little over a year ago, and the fuel pressure regulator was replaced about a month ago. I am still getting the problem when I go to start it. Any other suggestions on what might be wrong would be a great help.

Pinch off the return line momentarily when the pressure is going down, if it still leaks down it's the regulator again.

Jim

Hi,

I'm not sure if you resolved this issue, but often times a hard start when the engine is warm is related to a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor (ECT). On this vehicle, there is an ECT that indicates coolant temp to the vehicle control module (VCM).

Okay, based on what the sensor is indicating to the computer the coolant temperature sensor is determines the air / fuel mixture the computer provides to the engine. Since your vehicle starts quickly when cold and not hot, the sensor may be sending an inaccurate temperature indicating it's colder than it actually is. The result would be a rich fuel mixture and cause a hard start and make it seem like the engine is flooded.

If you look at pic 1, it shows the sensor's location. Pic 2 shows the connector. Make sure it is tight, clean, and not damaged.

To confirm this is bad, you will need a live data scanner and check the temp reading of the sensor and compare it to the actual engine temp. If it is bad, here are the directions for removal and replacement. The remaining pics correlate with the directions.

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1996 Chevy Truck S10/T10 P/U 4WD V6-4.3L VIN W
Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor
Vehicle Powertrain Management Sensors and Switches - Powertrain Management Sensors and Switches - Computers and Control Systems Coolant Temperature Sensor/Switch (For Computer) Service and Repair Procedures Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor
ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE (ECT) SENSOR
Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor Electrical Connector

Pic 3

Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor

pic 4

CAUTION: Use care when handling the coolant sensor. Damage to the coolant sensor will affect the operation of the fuel control system.
are
REMOVAL PROCEDURE
1. Remove the negative battery cable.
2. Drain the cooling system below the level of the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor. Refer to Draining and Filling Cooling System.

3. Remove the electrical connector releasing locking tab.
4. Remove the ECT Sensor.

INSTALLATION PROCEDURE
1. Install the ECT sensor to the engine.
2. Refill the coolant system. Refer to Draining and Filling Cooling System.
3. Connect the negative battery cable.

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Here are a few links you may find of interest. They discuss the sensor, it's purpose, symptoms related to a faulty sensor, and in general how one is replaced.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-coolant-temperature-sensor-works

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/symptoms-of-a-bad-coolant-temperature-sensor

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/coolant-temperature-sensor-cts-replacement

I hope this helps. Let me know if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe