88 mgm hard starting problem

[JasonJ1969]

First off, I want to say "hey" to everyone here. Now, for the problem. I have an 88 mgm with 5.0 that has developed starting issues (Its actually my mothers, but since I am the one who gets to work on it, it may as well be mine). Lately, it is taking a lot of cranking to get it started. Once it starts, it runs fine. If left for a few hours or more, it is hard to start again. I am suspecting fuel delivery issues, but after reading as many posts as I could find on here, I have nothing conclusive to go by. It is been going on for the last few weeks, and also it has been quite cold. Any help is appreciated...

[auto trainy]

It sounds like a fuel pressure problem.Have someone do a fuel pressure test and post back with the results.

[owo2]

Condensation may be drawn through the PCV hose that is connected to the throttle body above the idle bypass motor. The condensation may drip and accumulate water on the ISC motor, freezing the motor closed. I have been told that this is my problem with my 91 GM and have been told that there is nothing that can be done to prevent the freezing in freezing temps. It occurs when the vehicle is left outside over night or after just a few hours.

I really don't know if indeed this is the problem we both have or not. My 91 will crank/catch, crank/catch repeatedly. At the point where the engine "catches" I depress the accelerator about 1/2 inch and it usually starts after 1-2 tries.......after warming up a bit, it runs really well. I too have a 5.0........I did not have this problem in above freezing temps........

I find it hard to believe that there is not a work around for this, if indeed, this is the problem we are having.......

[JasonJ1969]

The other day I messed with the car. While I was having my mother try to start the engine, I began a "wiggle test" of the wiring, and when I wiggled the wires hooked to a cluster of relays on the drivers side, bolted to the fender, one clicked like crazy and the car started. I unplugged all the relays, cleaned the terminals, made sure no wires were loose, and put everything back together. Been running fine ever since, regardless of temp. Thanx for the replies, I'll still check in on occasion, see if any new tricks for this old dog (the car, not me) shows up. My mother is pretty happy now that it is running. My vehicle, a 95 Ford f150 4x4 has been showing its arse lately, but just little things. Don't know why vehicles have to have problems when it is 6 below zero out...

[6502dude]

Likely problem was with fuel pump relay.

Cold weather always causes weakness in automotive systems to show themselves.

[auto trainy]

Think about how metals expand and contract with temperature and youll have an idea why things happen at very cold temperatures. Good troubleshooting.