FUEL PRESSURE UPDATE: checked it today and yep it's low (around 16 - 17 psi) at idle. WOW, about half of what is suppose to be.

I have attempted the turn key on/off sequence before attempting to start it thinking it would help the starting issue. It's seems to make no noticable difference. The short cranks however do. That brings me to another question. Ever since I owned the vehicle (little over 6 years) I have never noticed the short hum of the fuel pump when the key is turned to the 2nd position like other cars. I assume this is normal on these vehicles since I don't recall ever hearing this even when I first bought it. I know some vehicles like Chevy Silverado's have a very noticable 1 to 2 second hum from the fuel pump prior to start. Just curious.

 

It might just be harder to hear with your truck, put your ear to the floor in the cargo area and have your wife turn the key to the 2 position and listen for the pump.
But it sounds like your pump is weak, replace the filter, it the problem is still there then replace the pump.

 

replace your filter before touching the pump. If you still have the problem, the pump is easy to get to. I just saw a guaranteed one on e-bay pretty cheap.

 

I am finally getting around to finishing this job, ....at least I hope. I did change out the fuel filter a month or two ago. The old filter was full of black sludge, and was very very hard to blow air through. I thought for sure a new filter would solve my problems. It seems to have helped ever so slightly, but still has some power loss / starting issues.

I am now thinking the the pump just had to work too hard in that restricted condition and now is junk. Fuel pressure remains in the teens with the new filter on also.

I am in the process of pulling the old pump out now. Anyone have any tips on removing the locking ring? It will not budge with a hammer and flat head screwdriver. I will try a larger pair of channel locks next. Anyone ever cut this ring and just replace it with a new one?

Let me know folks...Thanks.

 

The only problem with cutting off the old ring is that if you mess up the threads on the tank you are screwed.
Spray some lube around it and let it soak in for a few minutes.
Also try to tighten it before you try and loosen it, sometimes you just need to break loose all the crap and tightening it works sometimes.
This is true for any nut/bolt/screw that is rusted and is giving you a hard time.

 

Well, job is finally complete! I ended up going with an after market "high flow" fuel pump at the incredible price of $49.95 (w/ free shipping) from Felco Products. The pump and inner fuel filter was a breeze to replace...I can't say the same for the outer locking ring though. I had to cut thru it and destroy it to get it off. With about $100 invested (new pump, metal outer ring, plastic inner ring, new tank seal, new "o" rings for gas lines) the job is complete! Fires right up with a turn of the key...like brand new. Thanks all!