Cold weather starting issue

[Roadking]

What would cause this or has anyone else run across the same problem.
Whenever I start my 97 Explorer on a cold morning (20 degrees or below) or after it’s sat for more then about 6-8 hours it fires up for about 1 second then dies.
The second time I hit the key it starts just fine. This is getting annoying. I had the manifold o-rings replaced two years ago and the plugs have about 20k on them. I tried cleaning the IAC, no change. The MAF was also replaced with the o-rings two years ago.
Any ideas?

 

[Josh S.]

Mine does this too sometimes, I just make sure to let the fuel pump solenoid(or whatever the noise is whenyou turn the key forward before starting it is) until it stops, then I start it. It seems to help, but yah my exploder does this sometimes too.

 

[97BlackX5.0]

do you turn the key and let the fuel pump pressureize before you start cranking.... try pausing a few seconds before you crank for the first time... the fuel pump has to get the fuel pressure up to par before it will run right....

 

[Josh S.]

yah thats what I meant to say haha

 

[Roadking]

Does the MAF affect the start-up mode? I’m thinking mine might be going bad. Ever since I had the MAF replaced the engine takes a split second longer to start. I might be on the wrong track.
What sensors affect cold start-up?

 

[EMG7895]

Do what they said about waiting a few seconds with the key on before you start it, it works. Mine did this for years before I figured it out.

 

[Roadking]

I'll give this a try, the price is right! If I can just remember to not jam the key in and turn. This would be great if it solves the problem. Thanks for the help.

 

[TPLYNCH]

Was the computer reset after you changed the MAF sensor?

 

[Roadking]

That's a good question?
When I had the manifold o-rings replaced at the dealer they took it upon themselves to replace the supposedly faulty MAF at $280 bucks.
It never started the same after that. I mean, I used to just touch the key and it was running; now I have to hold the key for a split second longer before it starts. I had it back to the dealer and everything checks out.
I’ll try unhooking the battery tonight to reset the computer and see if that makes any difference. Another cost free tip.
Thanks again for the help.

 

[Roadking]

Well, yesterday when I left work it was 14 degrees. I left the key turned on in the ignition for a good minute before I tried starting it up. No change, it actually took three times to get it started? Last night while I shoveled the driveway for 45 minutes I had the battery unhooked. I hooked the battery back up and took it for a short 4-5 mile drive. This morning it was 6 degrees, it stumbled a little as I started it but then it took off. How does the computer relearn and recalibrate itself? I did some searching this morning but didn’t find anything specific about resetting the computer. I think I’ll stop a NAPA tonight and pick up a new MAF ($100) and see what that does? I’m out of ideas?

 

[Roadking]

Just FYI-
I went to NAPA and bought an IAC instead of the MAF based on their recommendation. It took all of 15 minutes to install, and it starts like new.
Problem solved.
Thanks for all the help along the way!