long cranking before start

90 cherokee takes at least 15-20 cranks before it turns over. Starts every time, but it eats up batteries this way. Turn the key on, fuel pump kicks on then stops, telling me it has the pressure it needs?,15-20 cranks later she fires,run great once running. doesnt matter if it hot or cold.

Try turning the key on (not start) wait about 2 seconds, then off, then on again for another 2 seconds. Do this three or four times, then see if it starts without the prolonged crank. If so, your not getting fuel pressure quick enough. Could be a pump, ASD relay or Injector issue.

If that doesn't work, put a spark tester on one of the plug wires, and have someone crank it. Make sure your getting spark right away. If not, this could indicate a failing crank or cam position sensor, coil or ignition switch issue.

steve, Thanks! sounds like that could be it (low fuel pressure that is). on the third key turn the fuel pump stopped pumping and it only took about 7 cranks for it to start, i'll check those other things first before I start dropping the tank!!! thanks derby

it is the pump, the check valve is located inside the pump, and will leak fuel back into the tank after it sits for sometime, the extra cranking is just the fuel system comming back up to preasure.

I have the same exact problem with my 92 XJ. I put the pressure gauge on it and the pressure was within spec while the engine was running, but dropped to virtually zero by the time I jumped out to check it after shutting off the engine. According to the manual, it should hold pressure for approx 30 min. I haven't gotten around to changing the pump, but it's on my list of things to do (or have done by someone else if I get lazy). Look forward to hearing how it goes.

me too! I bought a new pump and even started removing the old one, but I need to get a brass punch as to not cause a spark! Make sure you buy a new screen/filter with it. I got mine at autozone for 80.00 total with a warranty