Ford Repair: hard starting, fuel pressure regulator, vacuum hose

Question
'94 Tempo, 125K mi., std trans.,fuel inj.
Sometimes the engine will start right off, at other times it may turn over and over for 5-7 seconds before it struggles to run smooth. Fuel pressure is 47psi. Vacuum applied to EGR causes the engine to falter, no codes in EEC.
Any hints, Dennis?


Answer
Fuel pressure you indicate is a little bit high. Does it hold or drop off rapidly with the key off? Most will hold a long time without losing pressure. If it drops quickly, check for leaks, especially the fuel pressure regulator. Check the MAP sensor vacuum hose for blockage, there is a gel in the sensor that on some will leak into the hose. Clean the idle control valve and throttle body too.