Jeep Repair: Hard Start, spark plug


Question
QUESTION: I recently replaced the spark plugs, cables, distributor, rotor, and fuel filter and my hard start went away. Now it's back.
Engine runs fine once started. Straight 6 cyl. 4.0liter 4wd
1993 Jeep Cherokee.
Should I change the fuel pump, the fuel pressure regulator, or both? Any other suggestions would be appreciated. Thank You

ANSWER: When you say it is hard starting do you mean that when you jump in and try to start it the first time it turns over it will not start but the second time you try and start it it fires right up? Once it has been running for a bit can you turn it off and then start it right back up? I know you are looking for an answer like right now but what i would like for you to do is go out to your jeep, Turn the key to the run position and open your gas cap and see if you can hear the pump running. see if it cuts in and out at all. also, Try turning the key a few times to the run position and back to off maybe 4 or 5 times, what you want to do is see if you have to build pressure up in the fuel lines and see if it will start. dont crank it for long just try it a few times. If you notice that this works for you it is the fuel pump.. Pretty common problem. Hope this helps

PS. maybe consider doing a fuel system flush.

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QUESTION: In reply, engine rotates a couple of times on each attempted start prior to caching, regardless of # of attempts. Including after warm-up.bdxwb

ANSWER: I still think it could really be in the fuel pump and fuel filter. Could you hear any sounds like humming coming from the tank? see what it sounds like is you dont have the pressure in the fuel lines that you need to have for it to start and run, but after a while it builds up enough to start and that is when it does start. What have you been having to do to get it running? every detail will help.

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QUESTION: Can not hear humming or any other sound from gas cap while in the ON position.
I took my starter in for a test. the result was that the starter was too weak to turn over the engine. After installing a new starter, it starts right up after a couple revolutions.
although the problem is now fixed. Should I replace the fuel pump as a preventative measure? Also, do you happen to know what the propper spacing should be on the new spark plugs that I recently installed?

On a seperate note, I can hear a clicking sound coming from underneath, even while coasting in Neutral. If I put new grease or oil in the Differential and install a new gasket, how difficult is it to check or replace the wheel bearings? What else can I check for the problem?

Answer
O ok so I was thinking that it was turning over fine and just was not starting. I would not try and replace the fuel pump till you need to because it is a hard job to do.

as far as the spark plugs check out this website step number 5
http://www.getahelmet.com/jeeps/maint/sparkplugs/