Fuel pump problem??

[wargle]

I have a 97 XLT 2wd, 145K. About a year ago it began to occasionaly hard start. It would turn over 3 or 4 seconds before it would start. Now it does this a lot more frequently whether the engine is cold or hot. I have replaced the fuel filter about 12k miles ago. The fuel pressure after she sits for several hours only goes up to about 20psi with key on engine off. If I turn the key off and back on the pressure goes up to 30psi. When I start the truck, the pressure stays at 30psi. If I unplug the FPR vaccum, the pressure goes to 40psi. When I turn the engine off, the pressure slowly climbs to about 35 or 36 psi and hold for 15 min. or more. Also, I can't hear the pump prime whith key on-engine off, but the guage shows pressure. The truck has never failed to start, but I think something is not right and I don't want to be stranded somewhere. Any ideas?

 

[BrooklynBay]

When was the last time you replaced the plugs, wires, air filter, cleaned the IAC, MAF sensor, throttle body, etc?

 

[wargle]

Plugs and wires about 30k ago, cleaned throtle plate and MAF 10k ago, new air filter10-12k. I can't remember if I have cleaned the IAC. Do you have an opinion about the pump not making any sound when the key is turned on but still making pressure?

 

[BrooklynBay]

The pump has to turn on to make pressure. Maybe it's just hard to hear or it could be going bad? It might be weak.