I have owned 2 caravans, both 1990, one a grand caravan LE 3.3l V6 and currently a standard SE 3.0l V6. The grand had 360k miles, and my current has over 160k. Both vans shared a common problem.

They ran and drove fine but getting them started is a chore.

I would turn the key and the van will turn over for upwards of 5-10 seconds before the engine comes on. When it comes on it will always stall. Another turn of the key would result in another stall.

In order to keep the van running I have to pump the gas pedal and I notice the engine chugs and coughs and white smoke is produced when I do this. After several seconds of giving it gas, it will stay running fine.

Any idea of what is causing this? Has a new fuel filter so that is not the problem. Thanks

*It used to stall at stoplights, but it hasn't done that in a while.*