Hard Cold Starts: Any Ideas?

[Dan66]

Hi folks,

First-time Explorer owner and first-time poster. I just purchased a '96 XLT about 3 days ago (to take over daily driving duties from my '66 Mustang). Everything was perfect for the first day or so, but now I'm experiencing difficult cold starts. But even that doesn't completely describe it...

This morning, it fired right up in 50 degree weather. Runs good and dependable all day long - starting and re-starting as many times as I need it to. But then after sitting for about 5 hours this afternoon in 70 degree weather, it cranked and cranked before it eventually started.

It spins fast and sounds healthy; so I'm assuming the battery and starter are fine. I'm thinking it may be a fuel issue. Somehow it's draining from the injectors after sitting for a while. Does that make sense, and what is the fix? All suggestions are appreciated. Thanks!

 

[FreeWheelin4x4]

If it's still original battery, I'd replace it. Mine is having the same issue here in PA now that it's getting colder. I changed the battery and it works better now. Starts right up, ended up getting a higher cold crank battery. Just my experience. Mine was sounding fine, didn't sound like a battery issue, checked the date on the battery (still from 95) so I said screw it and replaced it, been 2 days now and no problems.

 

[marragtop]

I'd pursue the fuel issue. When you turn the key to the ON position, you should hear the fuel pump prime for a second or 2. Next time it doesn't want to start, turn the key to the ON position, let it prime, turn key off, turn key on let it prime again and then try starting it. In other words, let it double prime before engaging the starter.

 

[Dan66]

Excellent suggestion, marragtop. Thanks...

 

[falls guy]

If the fuel pressure is good, then the next thing I'd check is the temp sensor. That tells the computer to give a rich mix till it starts and warms up. Kinda like the same idea as a choke. Good luck.
Peace

 

[Dan66]

You may have hit on something there, falls guy... My temp gauge doesn't appear to be all that accurate. The highest I've ever seen it climb is about 1/16" off the "C." Most of the time it rests right on top of it. I had assumed it must be the thermostat, but haven't had time to tear into it. Could be the sending unit, eh?

Do I need to drain the cooling system to change the thermostat and temp sending unit? (4.0 six, by the way)

 

[falls guy]

I'm not sure on that year, but you shouldn't have to drain it.