My 91 (bronco) with the original 351 has developed a hard starting issue over the past months.

To get it started now, I turn the key and crank the engine for several seconds(does not even fire). Then I crank for about 5 seconds and it slowly catches and starts.

I remember in the past, much like my 90 mustang 302, the thing would start so quickly, you barely bump the key and its running.

In addition to the current situation, about a month ago, I was struggling with this starting issuse, it finally refused to start no matter how long I cranked it. I looked at the dist cap and rotor and they looked worn, replaced them, and it started but again with the long cranking.

Where am I with this? Coil? I installed an MSD coil several years ago.

What else could it be?

 

Hows the fuel pressure? You can borrow a gauge to check the pressure at the fuel rail. Should be ~39 lbs while running. When is the last time the truck had a tune-up with plugs and wires?

 

Also.....once started, it runs in perfect tune with plenty of power

 

Hows the battery? I would check and replace the battery cables and clamps. Also check the grounds.

 

The battery cranks the engine over fast with alot of power.

 

Just curious, if your turn the until the fuelpump stops running, then start it, does it fire right off.

 

I think what you tried to say is if I turn the KEY on and and wait til the fuel pump stops running....

No, tried many times, waiting to crank until after the pumps stops make no difference.

 

I still think a fuel pressure gauge here would help. Check and see if it loses all its pressure once you stop the motor. Isn't there two fuel pumps? One to pump out of tank and one to build/maintain pressure?

 

As afr as 2 pumps go, you got me. If it were a few pressure problem, I don't understand why it runs so strong at WOT.

I wish I had a fuel pressure gauge though.

 

Yes he does have 2 fuel pumps as edge described and a gauge would eliminate pressure problems.

 

Also, for what its worth, it does this both when cold and hot.

 

I would disconnect the coil to distributor wire at the distributor end, and check spark to ground there while someone cranked the starter.

 

I found this:

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...ing-issue.html

This sounds just like my issue, so I will test the ECT and ACT.

Does anyone have some pics to show where these sensors are located?

 

WHO!!! You need to pull codes. KOEO and CM. Yes you MIGHT be correct with ECT on the thermostat tree or ACT in the middle of the intake manifold but always start with getting the codes. Write them down and report back for more thoughts please.