Thermostat and hard starting

[cmlind]

2000 Cherokee 4.0.

Recently the Cherokee has been starting tough. Cold starts crank for about 5 seconds. Sometimes it starts and dies then cranks and starts again like it isn't getting fuel. Once started it runs good. Is there a check valve or regulator valve in the fuel system that could be draining down, or am I looking at the fuel pump or an injector?

The other thing I have noticed, is that the temp guage likes to go over 210 to about 220 or so when in traffic with the air on low. The engine idles rough when hot also. Stays just below 210 when cruising. The radiator was recenly flushed and looked clean and I am suspecting the thermostat, but since the OEM is 192 - 195 I am wondering if this is normal. I personally don't like to see temps this high and am considering replacing the thermostat. I could also get a 180 degree thermostat. Any recommendations? Since computers do wierd things I am also wondering if my two problems are related. Any ideas out there?

[swilt]

There is a fuel pressure regulator on the fuel rail near the injectors. I wouldn't run a 180 degree thermostat if it calls for a 192 degree. The computer is calibrated for the engine to run hotter than 180. You'll find the engine running richer and burning more fuel.

[xj31]

actually that is a returnless fuel system so the regulator is on the fuel pump.Also your temp sounds normal and like swilt said,stick with the stock t-stat.