97 Fuel Pump going Bad????

[samahi72]

Another question on my recently purchased 97. The car has to crank for about 2-3 seconds before it will start. When I asked the previous owner about this, he told me to turn the key to the "on" position for a couple of seconds before engaging the starter. He said the fuel pump needed to pressurize the system. When I follow his directions, it does work but I am thinking that the fuel pump should be holding the pressure when van is off. Also where is the fuel pump located?
Thanks

[mechanic1980]

The fuel pump is in the tank and it does hold pressure but not forever try a fuel filter first

[Airjer_]

Have you checked to see if the fuel pressure regulator is leaking? Pretty common on those as well as fuel injectors!