COld engine start problems - help

[shaggsta]

Good Day,
I have been having a problem for a while now, and seems to be somewhat more of an annoyance than anything.
When the engine is cold it will only start on the second crank. Always does on the second. When it's warm it starts up no problem.


I had an engine replacement a month ago, and the problem exists before and after that... which rules out the engine itself. Making my thoughts to fuel pump. However there seems to be no lost power, rough idle or anything like that, just starting up. Any help would be great.

Thanks

 

[rd090983]

Well it sounds like you may have an EFI sensor gremlin; did they install new sensors or reuse the old ones? That’s where I would start first. As far as the fuel pressure I would grab a Pressure gauge and hook it up to the Schrader valve on the fuel rail and have someone crank on the engine while you watch the gauge reading. I don’t know the specs on the actual pressure but I’m sure you could find it in a Haynes or Chilton book. Or just keep asking; someone here probably knows what it is off the top of his or her head. Also check the basics like make sure you have a good fuel pump relay, check for vacuum leaks, check and make sure your PCV valve is good, some times the stick in the open position and mess with the EFI system by cause an overly lean condition. I hope all this advice helps.

 

[TPLYNCH]

Try turning the key on and off 2 times, waiting for the fuel pump to stop whining before turning to off. On the third try, wait for the pump to stop whining, then start. If it turns right over, the check valve in your fuel pump is bad.

 

[shaggsta]

Tried the key thing and it did nothing. It seems to run fine once started, normal fuel consumption, nice idle etc... I'm kinda unsure about this one.

 

[MrShorty]

I would suggest putting a fuel pressure gauge on it. See if the pump is bringing it up to pressure properly for the first start.