Slow cranking and stalling

[Iflyt]

I got several problems with my 87 Laredo inline 6 4.0.
The starter has to turn over too long to crank. Sometimes it will just cut off ..sometimes it will skip and sputter first sometimes just cuts off without notice. Always cranks back up so far..sometimes will sputter a while and then run normal for a few days.
I know I have a shift linkage problem..and a neutral switch problem. No backup lights and have had to move my gear shift to the sweet spot to get it to crank for many yrs.
However this cutting off stuff and slow cranking has just started and was wondering if it could be tied in with the neutral switch or shift linkage problems. I just put in a new starter and starter solenoid this wk. and it just cranks a little quicker..still too long.
I'm not a mechanic and anything I do is iffy and usually ends up not working..so any help would be appreciated. I really need to try and replace the neutral switch and adjust the shift linkage myself if possible and probably the CPS if that is what y'all think may be causing the stalls.
I don't have a clue on the slow startup...Thanks again for any info.

[hiduke89]

I have the same problem with the slow cranking. Also when i first deaccelerate and try to accelerate again it dies...but sorry no clue on why...i would also like to know.

[Iflyt]

I took mine to a little one man shop today and got the mechanic to tighten up the shift linkage..so far it's cranked in park every time since... and he did a little checking to see what might be causing the slow cranking. He found for one thing..it has bad air leaks on 3 of the injectors (he had earphones and a listening device that he let me hear the leaks with.. and said that could be some of the problem. Told me to change the O rings on the front of ejectors and put some black silicone sealer around the O rings.
I will give it a try when I get a little time.

[hiduke89]

k sounds pretty easy...once u do it could u possibly post a reply to let me kno how it goes..thanks.