I have a 1999 Discovery I with 93k miles. Recently changed plugs,+4 with new wires, oil change, tranny fluid change and air filter change. Over the past few weeks, it is hard starting, usually in the morning (we are in San Diego so the temp never drops below 48 or so). It turns over fine, it just doesn't want to seem to start up. It did it again this morning and it took about 6 or 7 tries, and finally kicked in. Any ideas on the culprit? Other than that, it is running like a top, smooth, strong and or course, thirsty. Thanks Phil

 

When did you last change your fuel filter??
Can you start it first time if you shoot a little carb spray into the t/body then reinstall the hose?

 

Fuel filter.
If the problem is still around after you replace that then you need to dig deeper.

 

Fuel filter changed about 2000 ago, about 4 months ago. THanks Phil

 

Ok, so this only happens when the truck has sat over night, do you have fuel at the fuel rail?
On the pass side of the engine on the fuel rail is a schrader valve (tire valve), remove the cap and press it with a small screw driver and see if fuel comes out.
Do this in the morning before you try and start it.
What brand and grade of gas do you use?
Cheap gas and the wrong grade of gas can cause hard starting when cold.

 

does the check engine light stay on while youre cranking when it doesnt start?

 

I will check it out in the morning. Thanks again for the suggestions. All the best. Phil

 

Spike, I almost forgot, usually Shell gas, premium only. Phil

 

If it appears you have little or no fuel pressure at the rail after sitting over night then I would suspect the valva assembly at the fuel pump is failing allowing the gas to bleed back from the rail to the tank.
Try priming the fuel system in the morning before trying to start the engine. Turn the key to the 2nd position, hold for 5 seconds and turn off, do this 3 times then try and start the engine, what happens?
Mike

 

Alright, I went out this morning before I'd seen Mike's last post. I tested the schrader valve with the key completely off, no gas, a little spit of air, there was a little leftover pressure, but no gas. I then tested it with the key in the on position but without turning over the starter. Gas shot everywhere, like a Texas oil gusher, good pressure! (oh how I miss changing the diapers of my little boys!). Then turned the key to try to start it up, fired right up of course. Oh well, like I said, it is an occasional issue. Will try again tomorrow and let you know. (FWIIW, it was a bit warmer this morning, all the way down to 48.2). Thanks again. Phil