truck has done this the whole year and a half i've owned it; after sitting for hours it starts great. if i start it shortly after shutting it off it starts great. it's when the truck has been run, sits for a little while (depending on ambient temperature), then is restarted; the starter has to turn longer than normal while the engine coughs to start. then it's fine. what gives?

i've also been chasing a few other issues; what i think may be VCT solenoid issues, i have IWE issues under low RPM loads, and the typical passenger side manifold leak upon cold start. just thought i'd mention for data points. no stored or pending codes.

not sure where to start (no pun intended).