2000 T&C Hard starting

Nearly every time I start the van it takes two attempts. Often gives a strong fuel smell after it starts, and occasionally backfires. Once it is up and running, it runs fine. I have replaced the air & fuel filters, and the pcv valve. Any ideas?

One theory. Maybe a leaking fuel injector dropping fuel pressure as the van sits. Backfiring and fuel smell indicate a rich fuel air mix.

When your van is not running the fuel pressure should stay close to 49 psi for days. When you turn the key to on (not start) the pump turns on momentarily to make sure pressure is up to speed so the system has full pressure when you turn the key to start and start the van. If an injector is leaking allowing the pressure to drop so low the momentary pump cycle can't get the pressure up to 49 psi then you may have a starting problem. The constant drip of a leaking fuel injector will fill a cyclinder and produce a smell and backfire when you crank the engine.

Besides connecting a fuel pressure gauge to the test port on the fuel rail to check the pressure you could try turning the key to on a couple times before turning it to start. If this makes it start quicker then this theory may hold.

Beyond a fuel pressure drop the list is long. Could be as simple as worn plugs and wires to an engine management system failure.