Startup is being finicky

[BiggRiggin]

I have a 2001 Z71 with a 5.3 liter. When I first turn the key it turns over but doesn't start...even if I hold it on the initial attempt for a while, it still won't start. But if I let up and then turn the key again, it usually fires right up like it should. It's almost like I have to give the engine a wakeup call and then it's fine. Does anyone have an idea about what this might be? I was thinking it could be the fuel regulator from reading other posts, but nobody seemed to have startup problems quite like this.

[RedHeartbeat]

Listen for the fuel pump. I have an Astro that does the same thing. I just turn the key on for about 3-4 seconds and then hit the starter. It gives the fuel system a second to pressure up before startup. It may be that your fuel pressure regulator is bleeding off the residual fuel pressure. The way to check it is to install a manual fuel pressure guage, start the engine and check for pressure. Shut down the engine and see if the pressure bleeds down. It should not bleed down all the way. I am not sure how much residual pressure it should retain but it should not bleed down to zero.

[BiggRiggin]

Thanks, I'll give that a try

[camaross82]

Hey my truck was doing kindof the same thing. My problem was a faulty fuel pressure regulator. but it could also be that your fuel pump is going out. Sorry not more help. If it is a fuel pressure regulator, it only took me ten minutes to change.

Later

[BiggRiggin]

How much did you pay for your fuel pressure regulator and where did you get it from? I was surprised to find that they wanted 90 bucks for it at Auto Zone.

[ONE04FX4]

i thought that they were cheaper than that at the dealer. i think i have gotten mine fo aroud 60.00.