Cold start problem

[Sarge1400]

Had an issue with my last two cold starts (engine and ambient temp both <50 degrees): cranks fine, no start. Back off the starter (key still in run position), crank again for a few seconds, still no start. Turn key to OFF position, back to START, cranks, starts almost instantly. Does not act like this with warm engine.

Any ideas?

 

[SHOdded]

Codes? Possible fuel pump. Check fuel pressure at Schraeder valve on rail.

 

[Sarge1400]

I don't think it's the fuel pump; when I turn the key on, the pump will run a few seconds before shutting off, which tells me it's building pressure.

 

[jimtash]

But does it hold pressure? Had to replace a regulator recently because as soon as the car was shut off, fuel would just flow right back into the tank. And in the morning, would never build up enough gas in the rail to start the car without having to crank it for longer than normal.

 

[rubydist]

I don't think it's the fuel pump; when I turn the key on, the pump will run a few seconds before shutting off, which tells me it's building pressure.

That tells you the pump runs - that is different from the pump building pressure. They often fail by running but not building adequate pressure. Hence, you need to actually test the fuel rail pressure.

 

[Sarge1400]

Ok, what's the easiest way to test fuel pressure on these cars?

 

[jimtash]

Valve at the fuel rail.

If you need a new pump, the Delphi one at Rockauto is a repackaged Walbro 526 pump.

 

[Sarge1400]

40psi with the pump running, holds 30 when I turn the key off. Also, the pump doesn't shut off if I leave the key on like I first thought.

 

[rubydist]

check the pressure at the rail first thing tomorrow morning - see if it holds the 30 psi or if it drops down.

 

[sperold]

Cam sensor.
Without correct cam information, the electronic ignition system guesses where it is using the crank position sensor information, which has a 1 in 3 chance of being right.
It will act the same with a warm system, if not now, then soon.
Does your tach work alright?

 

[Sarge1400]

Tach seems fine.