Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) question about fuel bleeding off

[Fsbigcountry]

I have a 2000 model, it dosen't want to fire up. I have checked everything I have read about. It has no codes, new batteries, good fuel pressure, new fuel filter. It runs like a champ when I can get it to bust off. Starting fluid will crank it, but I hate doing that. ( I unplugged the heatiing solenoids ) Is there a check valve in my fuel return? If so where is it at. Everyone says it acts like a leak or bleed off situation. I've also read that the vp-44 could be going bad even with no codes & truck running fine when it will start. That sounds fishy to me, but i'm no diesel mech. Please help if you have any feedback. Thanks. I'm in Texas so no cold temps, My fuel gauge reads 17 when key is turned on then drops to 0. When I get her running it is about 16 idle and 10 going down the highway.