Start up problem

[Island Dodge]

My 12 valve Dodge Ram has 130K miles on it so does allot of sitting in the garage but now when I start up she dies unless I pump the throttle then she runs somewhat rough, smokes allot (white) then evens out and runs fine. Funny thing is, she doesn't do it all the time. I changed the fuel filter which didn't help. Any thoughts will be appreciated. Thank You, Steve

 

[RWherley]

sounds like a weak lift pump to me, put a fuel pressure gauge on and see what it says

 

[cerberusiam]

Have you ever rebuilt\replaced the VE since the ULSD switch over? If you aren't you might want to get some additives in the tank mixture and run thru the system and if it sits very long a diesel preservative is a good idea.