Hard Start When Cold

[NYDAVE]

Hi, I'm new to both Explorer's and the community, just bought a 2000 XLS w/4.0 SOHC a month ago. It has 81K miles, doesn't appear to have been too well maintained. I just replaced the upper manifold gasket last weekend and the MAF sensor to eliminate a Check Engine Light/P0171 & P0174 Lean Error Code. This also made an improvement to performance and gas mileage. My problem as of this weekend is I have to turn it over approx. 10 times before it starts. Once it starts, it starts and runs fine for the rest of the day. First I figured it was due to the weather, it has been around 0 deg F. This morning it was 14, and I still have the problem. What should I try and in what order?
1) Spark Plugs/Wires? Most likely they are the factory ones, never replaced.
2) Fuel Pump? Should I check pressure?
3) Idle Control? Not sure the symptoms match, idle is fine once it starts.
Or just wait for a 20-30 degree day and see it is fine first?

 

[2000StreetRod]

Maintenance suggestions

My suggestions:

1. Clean IAC valve
2. Replace spark plugs
3. Replace fuel filter
4. Add fuel injector cleaner
5. Check fuel pressure

 

[Tavery1]

If it runs fine after it warms up you may have to change the lower intake manifold gaskets.

After a while they harden and don't complete a seal when the engine warms up they expand sealing the intake.

 

[NYDAVE]

I started with the simplest: the IAC valve. I tried cleaning it, but performance got worse over the week to the point where it would not start or idle unless you had your foot on the acclerator. So I replaced it, $60 at Auto-Zone, end of problems, it starts and idles on demand, just like it should.
I had replaced the fuel filter when I bought it, along with all the other filters, fluids, and belt, the normal maintenance stuff. Got the car inspected Tuesday, got the shop to add the fuel injection cleaner (They forgot to add it to the bill so I got it for free.) I'll get the plugs and wires replaced when Spring weather hits NY.

Thanks, I didn't even know what an IAC valve was a month ago!

 

[2000StreetRod]

Congratulations!

I'm glad that you got it fixed and thanks for posting the solution!

 

[FloridaState]

I've had nearly the same problem, just less severe. I've cleaned the IAC, MAF and all that, but I still have to hold the key over and let it crank for a good 5 seconds before it turns over, but it runs fine after that. That's only when the engine is cold though and been sitting for a few hours or more. And it seems like if I turn the ignition to on and let it sit for a second, it starts right up.
So could this be my problem too? Can I take back the part if it still didn't solve the problem lol? College student = no money to waste.