Hello,

Just wanted to pick someones brain on this. As the title states the car has a long start, as in it cranks much longer before actually starting. This issue seems to correlate with cold weather. Any suggestions on where to begin troubleshooting. This does not appear to be an issue in warmer weather (cold is 40ish F and warmer being 70ish F)

I have not had a chance to really look at the vehicle. It belongs to my girlfriend and I just noticed today when she went to leave for work she had to crank it longer than normal.

Thanks

 

Try hooking up a fuel pressure gauge at night and then check the fuel pressure when cold. And post your pressure readings. You should be 48 psi give or take 5 psi. If you are below specs, then you may have a bad fuel pump.

 

Thx for the tip master_tech. I need to get a fuel pressure gauge. I've been wanting one for a while and sounds like I have a reason to get one now. Any recommendations for a halfway decent brand that wont break the bank? (I don't really need a snap on or anything being as this will be casual use, but I don't want to spend a little bit of money just to be buying another one after a few uses)

One idea suggested was a drain back issue with the fuel. Do you know if the fuel filter in this car has a one way valve/check ball of sorts? I was thinking of starting with the fuel filter since I'm sure it hasn't been done in at least 35,000 miles. I haven't looked into what all is entailed with the filter on this car, but I'm assuming it isn't too terrible a job.

Thanks for the suggestion on the overnight fuel pressure.

Issakar

 

You don't need a high price gauge. You can find them at any parts store or even sears. Here is some information on your fuel system. I will also post it in the DIY section too.
OPERATION
The Chrysler fuel pump module is an in-tank unit with an integral fuel level sensor and pressure regulator. The pump is driven by a 12 volt DC motor any time the fuel pump relay is energized. Serviceable components on the module include:

Inlet strainer
Fuel level sensor
Fuel Filter/Pressure regulator
The pump draws fuel through a strainer and pushes it through the motor to the outlet. The pump contains two check valves. One valve relieves internal fuel pump pressure and regulates maximum pump output. The second valve, in the pump outlet, maintains pump pressure during engine off conditions.

The fuel system use a positive displacement, gerotor, with a permanent magnet electric motor. This fuel system does not contain the traditional fuel return lines. The regulator contains a calibrated spring which forces a diaphragm against the fuel filter return port. When pressure exceeds the calibrated amount, the diaphragm retracts, allowing excess pressure and fuel to vent into the tank.

The maximum deadhead pressure is approximately 880 kPa (130 psi). The regulator adjusts fuel system pressure to approximately 400 ±34 kPa (58 ± 5 psi).

The inlet strainer, level sensor and fuel pressure regulator/filter are the only serviceable items.