NORTON98

I have a 1998 GT and it only has 39000 miles on it. Although it started the problem at 38,000 miles. Basically in the mornings particularly, it takes a while to start while im cranking on the starter. It seems that the battery isnt bad though because it does its job. The battery will always cranked the motor over untill it starts. I thought for a while it was because the engine was cold but it sometimes does it during the day. What do you guys think the problem could be. I thought I noticed a few times that it starts easier with a full tank of gas in it. But sometimes it will do it then too.

I also considered the problem to be the fuel filter and debris was not allowing enough gasoline flow but I had my fuel filter replaced 300 miles ago...

Thanks,
Mike

NORTON98

The weird thing about it is its random, sometimes it will start right away when its cold.

sprostang

My next guess would be spark plugs.

JJ03MustangGT

check your spark plug gap. to wide a gap means hard starts but a slight increase in power. smaller gap equals easier start but a minor decrease in power.

kylebgt

Check the spark plug wires too. Your starter shouldnt be going bad that soon.

BBond007

Change out the fuel filter.

Mine was doing the same...

Make sure it was installed in the right direction. Just double check that...

kylebgt

How hard is it to change the fuel filter? how often should it be done?

BBond007

Not hard at all. Not a fun job though.

Get under rear of the car. You'll find it tucked up near the back of the gas tank.

before you start, find the fuel cut-off in the trunk. Press it. Start the car and it should stall in a few seconds.

This removes pressure from the fuel lines.

You'll need wrench or socket and some pliers and some ramps.

You should change it every 30K or so.... If you have a used car and have never changed it, its always a good idea.

NORTON98

Well thatnks for the replies guys. Ill check the spark plugs! If its not that then ill move on to the fuel filter. Although I just had it replace so ill check that last ...

freefallin98

If you crank it over and it starts...but sputters and idle drops down and comes back up when its finally turns over....its more than likely your fuel pump.