98 Crown Vic hard cold start

This vehicle is driving me nuts, it takes a while to get it started when it's cold (usually at least 5-6 crank sessions) but after it finally fires up it runs perfectly, no hesitations or anything. After it's warm it will fire up everytime no problem.

I've cleaned the MAF, IAC looks brand new, fuel pressure looked fine, has a new fuel filter, plugs/wires and a pcv valve. With a scan tool connected it is subtracting fuel a bit (-8 LTFT, STFT's stay positive) but everything else looks alright. Not seeing any EGR flow, through the scan tool anyways. Put another fuel pressure regulator that seemed to be working fine on the other vehicle.

I'm at a loss, anyone got any ideas?

Symptoms of a bad MAF sesnor is a cold hard start!

Symptoms of a bad MAF sesnor is a cold hard start!

That was the first thing I checked, voltage looks good at idle and part throttle as well as g/s.

I have thrown away bad MAF/IACT sensors, that didn't throw a code, cleaned, and tested good.

During the cold start condition, the ECU set's a wider fuel pulse, it's like a chocking effect on a carb.

It also could be unmetered air leaks, the MAF sensor couldn't meter, thus confusing the ECU to give the wrong air/fuel mix, during a Cold start.

If not a Bad MAF/IACT sensor, suspect unmetered air leaks on air duct work, pcv tubing, or a bad egr gasket.

How old is your battery?
How many cold cranking amps?

You need a strong battery for the demand of starter, ecu, fuel pump, and ignition.
The MAF + Heated 02 sensors, also need a good battery for startup!