Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Need help starting

[pwknapp]

One of our work trucks is a 02, 3500, 6 spd. Been hard to start lately. Replaced lift pump and it now runs fine but have to crank and crank to get it to start. If I bump the starter and let the pump run for 3 cycles it starts fine. Had the injector pump changed about 30k ago for the 3rd time and this is the 4th lift pump. Only mods are dd3's and a Superchip which is currently pulled out.

 

[B.G. Smith]

Inspect the fuel line from the tank to the VP including the filter and fittings, if you see any area wet with diesel then it is pulling in air when not running. Doesn't take much of a leak to cause hard starting. bg