1996 1500 318 5.2 -- Sometimes it won't start, rarely however, it will crank like crazy but not start, if I wait a few minutes, it will. It only really does this when it's stone cold - if i've driven the truck at all during the day - it's fine. Sometimes I come out in the morning, crank crank crank, no start. If I wait 5 minutes, try again, sometimes it starts... I can hear the pump prime up on key ON.

the other issue is -- The truck seems gutless, it's not awefully quick off the line, and it seems sluggish up hills unless you are really into the pedal and even then - not so much.

Any thoughts? I have considered crank sensor, or a fuel problem... The computer is throwing no codes.

 

If you find that you need a crank sensor or cam sensor only use OEM parts.
I replaced mine with NAPA crank sensor in November and had all kinds of problems with it.
I put in OEM problems gone.
Go to Autozone and have them check for codes, not all trouble codes give you check engine light.
I had a code for transmission that didnt throw a check engine light but the reader still read it.
Dont let them tell you that the light has to be on for them to read it.
Dave

 

There is defiantly no codes - I have a ScanGauge II and it said no codes.

 

my guess would be either -

a bad fuel pump/fuel filter assy.. Do a line pressure test at the fuel rail.. ( In morning when cold, sitting over night)

Or some sort of a bad - cold start valve or choke relay

Do not think - spark or spark timing - is the issue

 

did it again this morning after I lent the truck to a friend...

I don't think it's spark either... Regarding the gutless part - i'd ignore that right now...

I agree it's gotta be Fuel pump/Fuel Filter assy - but I need to get a pressure test to check it.

Any hints on ways to get around the problem for the time being?

what kind of pressure should I see in the rail in the morning? When it's running? When it's off but been running?

 

I'd lean toward the map sensor. It is also used for barometric pressure calculation and can be affected by cold air, and pressure changes (caused by elevation changes). They tend to stick. If you have a scan tool with real time monitoring you can see the reading in the morning before you crank the truck, and compare it to your local baro preasure at that time (local weather station... Try wunderground.com and after you enter your zip, scroll down and look for the nearest station to you)