Intermittent starting problem

[tonyco]

Hi, I have a 1993 Del Sol Vtec with an unmodified engine. The car always starts first time when it's cold (and 'warm'). This problem only occurs at normal operating temperature. When I turn off the engine (or heaven forbid - stall it) it will often (not always) fail to restart unless I leave it for about 20 seconds (or up to a minute). The engine spins but will not fire. When I first turn the key the engine sort of fires for about half a second then dies. If I pump the gas pedal a lot it will do the same. Any further turn of the key just spins the engine. After waiting a few seconds, say 20 to 60 it starts fine. It doesn't matter whether I wait with the ignition on or off. The engine has never stopped by itself when running and runs very well. I would appreciate any comments about likely source of the trouble or where to start first in my process of elimination. The engine light works normally. Thanks.

[AudioGuy93DelSol]

Are you getting a check engine light? If so, what code?

[tonyco]

Hi, thanks for reply. No. I'm not getting an engine check light.

[AudioGuy93DelSol]

I'm really not sure. This kind of problem is hard to diagnose over the internet. My first thought is that it's fuel related but again, it's hard to say without actually being there. You could try running some fuel system cleaner and maybe doing a basic tune up if it has been a while. My best advice is to just try not to stall it

[Plastic_Fork]

It's inexpensive so try changing your spark plugs, spark plug wires, distributor cap and rotor button. Have your battery and alternator tested as well to make sure the charging system is functioning correctly. If none of those fix the issue, I'd say either the starter, your ignition switch on the steering wheel, a bad electrical wire, or something in the fuel system. Fuel filter or fuel pump perhaps.