Hard start issue.

[stevetaylor]

(First off If this is in the wrong spot my apologies to the moderator and request it be moved to the proper area)

Just wanted to say hi to everyone and like most I have come to this forum looking for an answer to a troublesome explorer issue. I have a 98 XLT 4WD with the 4.0 SOHC motor(Jasper engine)and around 140,000 on it. that has a hard start issue. First let me say that starting fluid cranks it right up so the problem seems to be fuel related.Here are the other details:

Starts fine first thing in the morning

Shut it off within 5 min and it will restarts no problem.

Drive 20 min to work, then go to leave my office 1-3 hrs later and requires starting fluid but always starts so far.

I have changed the fuel pump,fuel ilter , and fuel pressure regulator, cant find any leaks anywhere. Im kind of stumped. If anyone has any suggestions I would be very appreciative. Steve
stevetedder2009@yahoo.com

 

[BrooklynBay]

Welcome to this forum! I've moved your thread into the stock 95-01 section. Check the fuel pump relay, and the PCM relay.

 

[stevetaylor]

still at it......

Thanks for the suggestion, fortunately I have a few of these trucks around and I swapped out the PCM and fuel pump relay. Still same issue. Only trouble code stored seems unrelated. (transmission range sensor) Any other Ideas anyone?

 

[BrooklynBay]

The range sensor is similar to the neutral safety switch on the older A4LD. It prevents the vehicle from cranking if it's not in park or neutral.

 

[BrianDye]

Have you checked the fuel pressure?

 

[stevetaylor]

I have not,(No gauge handy) but in changing everything between the tank and the fuel rail I would think it to be good. It has now started to just die at idle sporatically and still no code. I am starting to rethink this as an electrical issue like a sensor somewhere, anyone know if a Camshaft position sensor could cause these symptoms?

 

[stevetaylor]

Still pulling my hair......

Still having the issue if anyone has any other suggestions, I have checked the fuel pressure when the vehicle will not start and it is about the same as when it is running(30psi)I also have changed the fuel pressure regulator.( Im trying to find the icon of a little man pulling his hair out as it seems to fit but no luck on that either) Any advice or suggestions is/are appreciated