98 Intrigue Hard Starting - when warm

[JasonSpaeth]

I have a 1998 Intrigue w/3.8L that is hard starting when warm. Actually, it starts hard all of the time unless it has sat for 2 or more days. If it has sat for 2 or more days it will pop right off. Once it is started the car runs and drives well.

The fuel pressure regulator was changed recently because there was fuel in the hose and the crank position sensor was changed because the water pump was leaking onto it. The only code it is throwing has to do with the fuel cap and a new cap was installed (still throws the code, though). The car has good plugs and wires.

I believe my problem may be fuel related, but I am not sure. I have a fuel pressure gauge and I plan to check the pressure to determine if the pump is strong and I would like to check the leak-down on the injectors. That said, I do not know how many pounds of pressure is normal for this car nor do I know how much pressure it should hold or for how long. Does anyone have these numbers or any suggestions of what else to check/diagnose for this problem?

Thanks for the help.

[Airjer_]

Key on engine off 48-55 psi

Should hold that pressure for hours!

[dtownfb]

What exactly is the code that keeps coming back? Are you having any other driving issues?

The reason i am asking is a bad ignition switch will cause the problems you are describing but doesn't throw a code.

[JasonSpaeth]

Thanks for the replies. I will check out the fuel pressure and post back the results. I do not remember the exact code, but I can have it checked out again. The ignition switch was replaced two years ago...but I suspose it could be bad again...except that would be hard to explain why it still starts good if it has been sitting for 2 or more days.