i've got a 2001 4.2V6 with about 120k miles. Usually it starts right up in the morning when the engine is at ambient temp. After allowing it to reach full operating temp for 20+ minutes and it is shut down, it has a hard time restarting. It does start every time, but it may have to turn over for 5+seconds before starting. Wouldn't be an issue if i was keeping it, but i have to sell. So, here's what i've done so far. New fuel pump/sending unit, pulled the injectors and had them tested and cleaned. all is well there. showing no codes. took it to the dealer and they said the idle air control valve was sticking and the fuel filter was partially plugged. I replaced both, still hard start. replaced throttle position sensor just in case. still hard start. back to the dealer, now they claim the heated pcv valve inoperable. i replaced that, still hard start. new plugs and wires, still hard start. cant locate a vacuum leak anywhere, so thats probably not it either... when it does finally start, more often than not it smells like it may be flooded.
ANY direction would really be appreciated
Thanks

 

Being a 4.2L with old school plug wires, during the cranking mode and no start, check for spark at end of plug wire. Also check for fuel at fuel rail, using a pressure gauge is preferred.

 

Bill, are you thinking along the lines of coil pack issues when the engine is warm, or tired plugs/wires? The problem has been going on for well over a year. I have replaced plugs and wires during that time, but not the coil packs... I do know that there is fuel pressure, however, i haven't put a gauge on to get and actual measurement.

 

I am not thinking along the lines of anything, the info you supplied is not enough to waste my time. Tell me if you have spark and have fuel, then perhaps I or others can help. Sorry to be so abrupt, we need help to help you. My questions asked will help determine a diognostic course of action.

 

Bill
checked for spark when not starting, spark is there as soon as the key is turned. Fuel pressure, running, regulated 37psi. running, unregulated 45psi. key on, not running 41psi.
question, is there any benefit to checking for spark at more than 1 plug, or is the 1 plug sufficient?
what would be my logical next step?
Thanks for your help

 

Sorry for slow response, been out of town. With spark and fuel present, I would sure like to have the camshaft postion sensor checked. It controls when the injectors fire. Its located exactly where a distributor would be if you had a distributor, front of engine on top, just to drivers side of engines centerline. Disconnect connector and check resistance per manual. Do not turn the sensor as it is timed to the engine. Being that the engine does run, I don't think its out of time.

 

Bill
old cam position sensor measured 1.27 kohms (was a 3 pin, and since I only could find specs for 2 pin config and because it was buried under coolant lines etc, i went ahead and replaced it) still hard start. ugh. so, what would be the logical next step?
Thanks
Jeff

 

sell it as is, you have already put a ton of money into it if you are just selling it

 

Are we sure there aren't any codes? I'm using my memory for recent posts, not rereading the entire history. Have you tried to cycle the key on and off a couple times before engaging starter? Thinking no fuel present on initial engagement.