Have to crank it several times to get it to start?

Hi,

It sounds like you replaced a lot of the fuel system. At first, I was thinking fuel pressure would drop off. Will it start right away if you cycle the key a few times before actually trying to start it?

Try this:

1) Turn the key from off to the run position (engine off) and count to 3.

2) Turn the key off and repeat step 1 a total of five times.

3) On the sixth time, see if it starts normally.

If that doesn't change it, my next thought is the engine compression may be getting low. Once the engine runs, things expand and can improve compression allowing it to start right away. Since you have already done so much work, that is the next thing I would try.

Here is a link that explains how to test compression:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-engine-compression

Also, if you have a live data scan tool, check to see if the engine coolant temperature sensor is sending a good signal. Do this cold so you can compare the signal to the ambient temperature.

Let me know,

Joe

I have tried cycling the key a few times but not as many as 6. I will try that tomorrow. (You can hear the fuel pump working for about 5 seconds or so.) I do have a live scan tool but only have used it to check codes. I will read up on how to use the live data feed. Thanks.

Hi,

That sounds like a plan. Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

Cycling the key does not seem to make a difference. The longer it sits between starts, the harder it is to start. Makes me think it could be a fuel problem caused by an electrical issue. Would a failing crank shaft sensor do this? Is there a way to test it? They are expensive (OE) so I would like to know if that is the issue before purchasing.

One thing, when I am trying to start it, it almost acts like it has jumped time, then suddenly, it will crank up and run fine.

Could it be the distributor (the ICM is in the dizzy).

Hi,

Anything is possible. Is it possible for you to record it cranking and upload it for me to hear? As far as the delayed start, I feel it is fuel related. If you want to see if it is the CKP, see if it starts immediately with starting fluid. If the CKP is failing, it will create an ignition spark issue.

Let me know.

Joe

Okay. It will probably be the weekend before I can experiment any. I have 2 other vehicles that I can drive, and I am working 12 hours a day at the moment. As soon as I can, I will do that. Thank you.

Hi Chris,

No problem whatsoever. When you have a chance, let me know what you find. Also, you should consider checking the engine compression. With 300K on it, the compression may be low and that will cause a hard start. I attached a link above explaining how it is done.

Take care,

Joe

I had a valve spring break at about 250,000. Had the head checked then and I replaced the 2 exhaust valves and springs and head gasket myself, but anything is possible. Thanks.

Hi,

That is correct. At 300K, the rings have a lot of wear on them. I would check the compression.

Let me know.

Joe

I decided to check my ECT sensor. Not running but with the key on, using a scanner, it shows my engine coolant is -40! After finally getting it running and letting it warm up, it still shows -40. Hopefully that is my issue. From what I have read that sensor, when not working properly, can cause similar problems to what I am experiencing because it is sending false info to the ECU. I didn’t have time to do a resistance check yesterday.

I checked it with a scanner using the live data mode.

Chris,

Yep, I mentioned checking that a few posts up. That is the problem. The computer is trying to compensate for the extreme cold by making the fuel mixture very rich. It is basically flooding the engine.

Let me know if the new sensor takes care of the issue. I'm interested in knowing.

Take care,

Joe

It looks like the ECT sensor fixed it. It’s been starting up good so far. Thank you.

Hi:

Chris, that is good news. It was a simple fix. You would be surprised how often this happens.

Regardless, I'm glad to know it's working properly, and I appreciate your update.

Take good care of yourself and feel free to come back anytime in the future. Also, if anything changes, let me know.

Joe