Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) harder starting

[SRehberg]

I don't know if I'm suffering from a deterioated fuel return line or what. Usually cold or hot the truck lights right up when starting. The last few times it has had to crank but then starts, which came on all of a sudden. The truck is a '96 with 56K miles on it. I looked at the lines and no visible cracks nor leakage. Power on the road seems normal along with everything else once it starts. I'm so use to it starting in about a revolution or so, that this longer cranking is disappointing. The fuel filter was changed about a month ago, and it has been working fine up until the last few starts. It is the same fuel I had in the tank when it was running fine. I don't want to tackle the fuel lines if not needed, as they don't look that friendly to change. What do you think?

 

[aroger]

my 97 started that a few mo's ago fixed it by changing fuel shut down relay/next time leave key on and lift up on shut down solnoid/if it lifts up and stays you have found the problem.

 

[SRehberg]

I'll give it a try, I hope that works, the hoses are a bear to get to it looks like. Thanks

 

[Dieselnerd]

My guess is you are getting air into the system. 3 things that normally cause this problem are leaking return hoses, (you can't see the cracks until you remove the lines), lift pump, (usually check valves going bad) and fuel heater. Look for wetness where the wires go into the heater.

 

[SRehberg]

The last few days the truck has started normally; I'll take a look at the lift pump and the fuel heater to see if there are signs of leakage.

 

[Andy Redmond]

Have the batteries tested, one maybe be going south. Always change both at the same time or the newer one will get drug down by the perceived still ok unit. My 95 seem to need batteries exactly each three years. I crank and shut off the truck more than most likely.



I like the greater CCA red top Optima's, Trim 1/2" off the ds hold down bolt closest to the fender to prevent potential wiring harness damage. Sam's Club usually has a good price.



The other items suggested are also common culprits and may likely solve your concern they are pm items to watch if nothing else.



Good luck

Andy

 

[PKemp]

If the fuel shutoff solenoid turns out to be the culprit, don't change it without first checking the relay and the starter contacts. A Bad relay and/or worn out starter contacts will make the shutoff solenoid "appear" to be bad. "Larry B" has oversized, heavy duty replacement contacts for the starter. Easy to replace. Its also a lot cheaper than a shutoff solenoid so check there first. Your intermitant starting problem could easily be this.

 

[SRehberg]

The goofy truck is starting just fine at the moment, so I need to take a look at all the suggestions. I appreciate the help, as I don't need this thing to park somewhere unexpectedly. I should upgrade the hoses and contacts anyway, before they cause an issue.