Hard Start-up

My 1999 GMC Sierra w/ 5.3L V8, starts up very rough. Very rarely will it start right up. I let it turn over for about 1.5 sec, then tap the gas pedal, then it starts and spurtters to life. Also when I open the hood and listen when someone turns the key to run, it sounds like someone is dumping a gallon of gas in the engine. I have just put in Brand New Bosch Platnium Spark plugs, but not wires yet. Anyone have any idea what is happening? Yes I gapped the plugs to .060 also, the factory spec.

I have a '99 with the 4.8 liter. I replaced the Fuel Pressure Regulator and it seems to run great now. Starts everytime. About two months ago it starting occurring and kept getting worse. If it wouldn't start I could floor the excelerator pedal and it would fire up but sputter for a while. My truck also seemed to drag when I let off the excelerator pedal when driving and would also stall sporatically.

Check your fuel pressure regulator. It should be located on one of the fuel rails to the injectors on top of the engine. Pull off the vacuum line and see if there is any gas that pours out. If so it has gone bad. I paid $62 for mine from the GMC dealer. Advance Auto had it for about $59 but was out of stock. Took me about 15 minutes to replace.