could never start it up (turn over engine) on a cold start

[oz16us]

i could never get the ST to start up first try...it usually takes a second or third from a cold start in the morning...
I've read to turn the key on and wait 10 secs, but not start the engine...and yes, only then it will turn over... do i need to replace the fuel pump? what was the conclusion to this problem? I know quite a few people had this issue but wasn't sure what the remedy was...it's a 2001 sport trac. Thx in advance

 

[bdmaash]

spark plugs?
iac valve?
vacuum leak?
plug wires?
fuel filter?
fuel pump?
can be anything, there isn't a generic fix for every problem unfortunately

Your post says "i could never get the ST to start up first try...", so what was your fix since it implies the problem is fixed?

 

[oz16us]

spark plugs?
iac valve?
vacuum leak?
plug wires?
fuel filter?
fuel pump?
can be anything, there isn't a generic fix for every problem unfortunately

Your post says "i could never get the ST to start up first try...", so what was your fix since it implies the problem is fixed?

changed the fuel filter...didn't change a thing. Next, I'm going to try changing the iac valve. How would I test if there is a vacuum leak?

 

[bdmaash]

not sure what the correct way is to test it, but some sort of spray, so when it gets sucked into the motor from the leaky hose - the idle increases....or maybe listen closely for leaks.

the PCV valve hose(?) has leak issues due to cracking - do a search on that.

I do have cold start issues, in winter it's more prevalent, my intake manifold gaskets are questionable (in my mind), but I haven't changed them yet, and that's a vacuum leak.

Also there were the leaky injector(s) that flooded the motor making a hard start condition after driving for a bit and then trying to start again.

Randomly replacing parts expecting a problem to go away isn't really a good way to fix a problem.

 

[oz16us]

was wondering if this was a common issue or whether this was just the way these trucks were built