2001 Explorer Sport 4.0 won't start.

[BAGman15666]

I have a 2001 Explorer Sport 4.0 81000 plus miles that won't start most of the time.
It cranks but rarely fires.
One time I reset the fuel cutoff switch and it started and I ran it around the fairgrounds.
When It does start, after cranking about a dozen times, it surges for a good while then smooths out.
Could it be the cutoff switch has gone bad, or maybe the fuel pump is going south.
Any help or guidance would be greatly appreciated,
Thank,s Explorer and Ranger fans and experts.

 

[Turdle]

Could be fuel pressure related. Fuel pressure gauge is needed to tell. Need one you can use somehow with duct tape while driving

Could be an issue with the crankshaft position sensor on front of engine, down low toward passenger side. When they get flaky the symptoms are about the same. Cleaning the sensor and reluctor me ght help. Tough to get in there without reminding ving the fan blade and shroud, and belt.

While checking sensor, check it's wiring loom. It rides in right behind the belt and can get damaged, so, it's worth checking.