sound like a fuel pressure problem? runs fine when started, but it's been taking longer to start. it doesn't try to start, it just cranks about 7 times then fires right up. i was thinking maybe the fuel pressure is bleeding off somewhere. i can sometimes smell fuel right after startup. . . . anyway, just thought i'd toss this out there. .

 

how's the fuel filter?

 

there's probably about 30k on it. . .

 

Ah you see?! If you checked the fuel pressure a long time ago like I suggested, you would have never asked this! lol.

Have the shop check it out. They have all the tools right?

 

change the filter

 

i have the same prob, sometimes it starts right up (when it does it has been run recently), but most of the time i have to crank a while...my filter only has about 5k on it, i had to set my alarm to crank for like 1.2 sec (the 3rd or 4th setting down the line, default .6) cause it takes so darn long, but it has always been that way (since last summer) my friend jokes that its cause my car is old, he's prolly right

 

Fuel filter should definitley be replaced. Also for VE guys, dont forget about your ignition system. If the coils are old they should be replaced (more than 80 or 100k).

 

i'll check the fuel pressure at teh shop this weekend. . . i was thinking it was bleeding off pressure because on occasion right after startup i can smell fuel. also, when it's warm, like just after i've driving it, it takes a crank and a half. . . i'll also replace the fuel filter again. .. .as far as the coils, they'll be done in july when i get my nice check. thanks for all your help guys. i just wasn't sure if any other VE's were having the same problem.

 

really??? gaw...theres goes more of my $$$...prob should replace one anyway, gots oil all on it cause of my bad valve cover

 

check your timing first. Make sure it's between 15 - 20 degrees. See my site for details.

 

actually it quit doin it. . . beats me LOL

 

Actually when your said it ok when warm but difficult to start when cold. I've had a similar problem and a TSB says to raise the base idle, but I would reccomend cleaning the Idle Air Control Valve. As carbon builds up in it, not enough air will flow for the rich starting mixture :rebounce to ignite. Search on it (IACV), I've posted a few times an easy way to clean it.

 

i was thinking about blocking the IAC. . . my buddies with hondas do it and the revs fall down faster. you have to set the idle with a set screw. i'm not even sure if our cars have one lol. but i'll look into that. . . . maybe even clean something

 

Yup we have an idle screw. but the IACV should be cleaned of carbon deposits.

 

i bet it is dirty, i'm having a REALLY rough idle. . . .