I've been trying to fix a hard start (warm or cold) for a few days now. I've been checking all the other threads with similar symptoms and have checked all recommended things - no better. The van got a reman engine in the spring and has only 10k since. The problem has been getting worse and worse til now without a battery charger it won't start (cranks too much). I put a clear tube in the return system (@ rear of intake) where it goes back to the tank and when i get it running there seems to be some air bubbles at first but goes away after a while. Shut it off for 30 seconds and have to crank for probably 30 secs to start. Checked all gp's (wellmans - 1 bad) and replaced all along with controller. I removed the fuel tank and checked pickup (ok) and all fuel suction lines with mityvac (ok). Replaced lift pump and tested (6psi) but pressure guage @ schrader goes down over few minutes (after shutoff). Removed and plugged filter reurn line and checked check valve on ip (ok). I even plugged the end of my clear line at fuel return and hooked mityvac to line at ip return (25'' hg and dropped 1'' hg in 15 min) so i think the o-rings, plastic caps and hoses on fuel return aren't my problem. When cranking over the fuel in the clear line (on return) doesn't seem to move until the engine finally starts. When started it doesn't smoke, miss or hesitate - runs great with lots of power. It seems like the fuel system is losing it's prime but i don't know where else to look. Thanx in advance for anyones wisdom and advice. This site is great - glad i found it

 

Have you visited http://www.intellidog.com/dieselmann/idi2.htm there is a ton of info re air leaks on the fuel filter. The steel lines have seals under the cap nuts also, lift pump to filter and filter to IP. Your clear hose is a good start but use it at the front on the filter to return line position and the IP to return line too. You can then find out which place the air is getting in.

 

...Welcome southpawent, to Ford Truck Enthusiasts!

…..See you on the boards.

 

Have someone check your cranking speed mine did the same thing a few months ago new starter fixed it right up. It sounded ok but just would not start for a long time