I have a 96 sse 3.8 that is acting kind of weird. I'll start it up and run around for a while and then go to sart it again and it will just crank, but not catch. This happens one or two times a month. I have tried to see it there is any reason (i.e. it's hot out, cold out, engine is hot, high humidity...) but there is no reason that seems to be common. Sometimes it won't start the first time I try to start it that day, sometimes I shut it off and it won't restart 2 minutes later, sometimes I shut it off for 1 to 2 hours and it won't restart. I do smell gas (like it is flooding out) when it doesn't restart. Usually, I wait 3 to 5 minutes, and it starts right up again. I have replaced all the regular stuff (plugs, wires, fuel and air filters) but it has not make a difference. The car has about 150,000 miles on it and is in good shape otherwise. I would welcome any suggestions as to what to do to cure this problem. Thanks

Next time it wont start, push the gas pedal all the way to the floor and try.

Also..
Check the codes at Autozone.
Could be Fuel Pump, Crankshaft sensor, Camshaft sensor, Ignition module, wiring, ECT, MAF, etc etc etc.

Lots of stuff..
Get some better hints.


Bass

Thanks for the reply. I have tried that before, with no luck. What seems to work sometimes is to push the gas to the floor and slowly let it up. This works about 25% of the time. As far as codes, there are none to pull, I have tried. The only time a code comes up is when a check engine light is on, and I don't get that when I have the problem. After reading other threads, I also have been able to rule out the VATS as my security light doesn't come on any different then when the car starts, and the FPR, as I have had this checked, and it is fine. I am leaning toward the cam sensor myself. Please submit any other suggestions.

Thanks

It is either fuel or ignition.. sounds like fuel.. could be debris in tank or still a intermittent pump..
The pump should put out 30-80psi..

Im thinking in the area of things that dont throw codes.
Check for fuel pressure during a no start.


As for camshaft sensor.. book says to disconnect it and see if it starts. Suprised even me.

Good Luck

It sounds like your pressure regulator may be leaking past the diaphram,to test it pull the vacuum line off and check for fuel,if it has fuel in the line replace the regulator.This is an easy check before you crazy with other troubleshooting,Good Luck

Fuel pressure on this car should be in the area of 48-55 psi.
Before we start jumping to conclusions here, lets back up and do a little diagnosis..this will tell us what system is the fault here.
Next time the car will not start, check for spark (easiest to check) remove the plug wire from a plug, place the end near engine metal and crank the engine over..you should hear and see the spark jump to ground..if it does, then the ignition system can be ruled out..if it doesn't, then we need to look at the ignition system and it's triggers.