Ford Repair: problems starting...., fuel pressure guage, leaky injector

Question
We have an '02 Ford Taurus, 105,000 miles, just replaced the starter and battery
within a year.  Lately it is having trouble starting, It will crank a few times
and sometimes it will fire up and others we have to let it sit for a while.  But
it always seems to get going.  One time I tried to hit the gas quick and it
started right up.  Could it be the fuel filter, or injectors possibly?  Thanks
for any help.


Answer
Hello Jonathan,
            There are two things that come to mind, both involving fuel pressure. A restricted fuel filter can cause a lack of power, but not a hard-start condition. If the pump isn't building the proper pressure and fast enough(32-65 psi in 2 seconds approx.) it needs to be replaced. There is a check valve in the pump itself keeps the fuel in the lines, so pressure should bleed down slowly. If it bleeds off fast, the fuel could be going past the check valve,past the pressure regulator (on the fuel injector rail), or a leaky injector nozzle(least likely). A good fuel pressure guage is necessary to properly diagnose most starting problems. Good luck!   Shaun.