Hard to Start

DEFINITION
Engine cranks OK, but does not start immediately. Engine cranks for more than 2 seconds before starting in ambient temperatures above 0°F. Engine cranks for more than 4 seconds before starting in ambient temperatures between -20°F and 0°F.

POWERTRAIN SYSTEM CHECK
Perform Chart 1: Powertrain System Check. Chart 1 Powertrain System Check

FUEL SYSTEM CHECK
Perform Chart 6C-1: Fuel System Check. Check especially for:

^ Fuel Quality
- alcohol content
- contaminants
- water content
- sour fuel
^ Low Fuel Pressure
- fuel pump circuit problem
^ Plugged or dirty fuel filter
^ Fuel Injectors
- not operating
- low flow rate
^ Idle Speed Control
- faulty Idle Speed Control (ISC) motor
- Throttle Position (TP) Sensor/Idle Learn not complete
Chart 6C-1 Fuel System Check

IGNITION SYSTEM CHECK
Perform Chart C-1 Ignition Control Performance Test. Check especially for:

^ High resistance, open, shorted, or arcing spark plug wires, crossfire between spark plug wires
^ Contaminated or damaged spark plugs
^ Distributor grounding points clean and tight
^ Correct ignition timing
^ Faulty ignition coil or Ignition Control (IC) module
^ Distributor cap, rotor, brush and button for moisture, cracks, dust or carbon tracking
^ Worn or loose distributor shaft gear
^ Bent distributor shaft or worn distributor shaft bushing

C Charts

MECHANICAL CAUSES
Check for:

^ Air induction restrictions
^ Low engine compression
^ Throttle linkage sticking or binding

DRIVER-INDUCED CAUSES
Check for:

^ Improper starting procedure. Refer to starting instructions described in owner's manual.