02 Vulcan cranks too long

Odo has 96,000 mi, always started right up with extremely short crank time.
Recently, within last month, takes 3 to 5 seconds cranking to go. Once running is good as ever but wonder if there is something wrong.

Odo has 96,000 mi, always started right up with extremely short crank time.
Recently, within last month, takes 3 to 5 seconds cranking to go. Once running is good as ever but wonder if there is something wrong.

Could be a fuel pump/pressure issue. If the pressure retained in the lines after shutdown is lost, either past a leaky injector or back through the pump, the crank time can be longer. The pressure has to build back up to have an adequate supply at the injectors.

I agree that the problem is likely a weak fuel pump, but you might start by changing the fuel filter to make sure that's not the issue first. Also if it hasn't had a tune up within the last 40k miles or so, performing a tune up could be money well spent as well. Even though the platinum plugs may be advertised as good for 100k miles, that's not what most people are finding in practice.

-Rod

Thanks for the info, I have been suspecting that the things I changed 5000 miles ago might be at fault. I replaced a failed fuel pump (w/Carter), fuel filter, and AutoLite Plugs. Think I'll start w/fuel filter fist.

SOLUTION FOUND !
Car was parked for 3 days last week, battery dead. New battery and ever since, starts up as fast as I can get on and off the starter.

Interesting, thank you for the follow-up. The Lincoln LS is pretty well known for having a very sensitive electrical system where a battery that load tests fine can still cause driveability issues. Looks like I need to add the Taurus to that list as well.

-Rod