97 blazer long crank won't start cold first try

[mikster777]

My mechanic tells me that the correct terminology is a long crank no start cold. When cold, the motor turns over and over, but does not start. On the second or third try, after the starter has been engaged for a few (5-10)seconds, it starts fine. After the first start of the day, when I experience this, it seems to be ok. Any ideas?

[blazee]

Originally Posted by mikster777

When cold, the motor turns over and over, but does not start. On the second try, after the starter has been engaged for a few (5-10)seconds, it starts fine. After the first start of the day, when I experience this, it seems to be ok. Any ideas?

The first thing to check is the fuel pressure. Your engine needs a minimum of 60 PSI for trouble free starting. Vehicles with 54-60 PSI will usually start after a couple of attempts, because the cycling of the key allows the pump to run additional time, and thus build up to the minimum pressure. Vehicles 47-54 PSI will usually start with starting fluid, any less than that and the vehicle will not run. Low pressure is normally caused by a weak battery, or restricted fuel filter, but could likely be due to a failing pump as well.

There are other possible causes of hard starting like you're experiencing, but the fuel pressure is the #1 cause, and you're symptoms are consistant with the issue, so it's the best place to start.

Also, are you noticing anything out of the ordinary with your dash lights, when the problem occurs?

[mikster777]

I will start there as you suggest. Appreciate your timely response.

[mikster777]

I haven't noticed anything with the dashboard lights, although I really wasn't paying attention to them. I will tomorrow am and will report anything out of the ordinary. Thanks,

[mikster777]

97 blazer 4.3L. In the morining with the engine cold, the motor turns over fine, but doesn't fire. I have left it turning over for at least 6-10 seconds, still does not fire. On the second or third try, the engine fires fine. Once running, it continues to runs fine. I have checked and I can hear the fuel pump for 2 seconds when I turn the ignition on. All dashboard lights light up as normal. Problem started about 2 weeks ago. Most days, this only happens first thing in the AM, and then does not repeat during the day, until the next morning.

I will check the fuel pressure at the schrader valve as I have been read about. Any help please??

[MT-2500]

Hard to start cold.
Check cold start fuel pressure.
Check engine running fuel pressure.
Check engine running on the road fuel pressure.
Then shut it off and watch for fast leak down.
Pinch off at rubber part or block off return line and check full pressure.
Later V6 and V8 gm engines should have 60-66 fuel pressure.
Cold start should be 64-65 lbs of pressure.
If you do not have full fuel pressure on a cold start the injectors will not squirt fuel.
Do not leave home without it.
Engine running should be 60-66 lbs pressure depending on engine load.
Full pressure with return pinched off should be 75-85 or more.
And if it has a fast leak down after shut off you have a leak.
Post back fuel pressure readings.

MT

[mikster777]

Will do, thanks for your thoughts.

[mark hannigan]

Originally Posted by blazee

The first thing to check is the fuel pressure. Your engine needs a minimum of 60 PSI for trouble free starting. Vehicles with 54-60 PSI will usually start after a couple of attempts, because the cycling of the key allows the pump to run additional time, and thus build up to the minimum pressure. Vehicles 47-54 PSI will usually start with starting fluid, any less than that and the vehicle will not run. Low pressure is normally caused by a weak battery, or restricted fuel filter, but could likely be due to a failing pump as well.

There are other possible causes of hard starting like you're experiencing, but the fuel pressure is the #1 cause, and you're symptoms are consistant with the issue, so it's the best place to start.

Also, are you noticing anything out of the ordinary with your dash lights, when the problem occurs?

i have the same problem with my 2000 blazer , checked fuel pump , 58 psi key on . drops to 54 when wtarting then back to 58 psi when running , stays 58 psi at least 20 minutes when car is shut off ,,,,, replaced cap and rotor , no change , help

[Schrade]

Originally Posted by mark hannigan

i have the same problem with my 2000 blazer , checked fuel pump , 58 psi key on . drops to 54 when wtarting then back to 58 psi when running , stays 58 psi at least 20 minutes when car is shut off ,,,,, replaced cap and rotor , no change , help

Pressure looks okay... Have you ohm tested the injectors? Do it cold, and hot.

How does it idle? Any loping?

[MT-2500]

Originally Posted by mark hannigan

i have the same problem with my 2000 blazer , checked fuel pump , 58 psi key on . drops to 54 when wtarting then back to 58 psi when running , stays 58 psi at least 20 minutes when car is shut off ,,,,, replaced cap and rotor , no change , help

Oh MY
This post is over a year old and is now under a high jack attact.
Always check date before replying to a post.
Let the old dead ones rest in peace.
If you need help on yours please start a New Thread /post.
And give all info on engine and mileage and what it is doing or not doing.