Can anybody HELP? 1998 - 3.8 having trouble starting. Everytime it has to be cranked over, say 10 to 15 seconds. I pause the fisrt time 3 to 4 secs then give it a second try and it runs after another 5 secs.Very unusual.New fuel filter, spark plugs, air filter,wires and tested fuel pressure it's all within specs, But won't start right away like before.I've been told the solenoid could be faulty, but I'm not sure. I know I'm putting a lot of stress on the starter each time.
Has anybody had same kind of problem that can pass it on? I will greatly appreciate it. Thanks!

 

Sounds like a starter issue.

Before you bite the bullet and pay $130 dollars for a starter. Take it to your local Autozone, Checker, Schucks, Kragen, etc and ask them to test it. They put it on a machine that tests the voltage flow and you can simply look through the window and check to make sure the gear is extending.

 

if its turning over normally then its not the starter, its just hard to start. starter has nothing to do with air/fuel/spark.

agree with having autoparts store bench testing before you buy one. the latest testers go through several items and do a fair job in telling you what is wrong, if anything.

long cranks drain the battery. it could stress the starter, might get it a little warm, but that's about it.

 

You are either not getting enough spark, or not enough fuel. I would check both.

 

Thank you all for your responces. I guess a good diagnostic would help. Autozone has help me in the past with different issues. This time I don't have the engine light on and thathas beena good excuse to ask them for the testing. Anyway, I will look into it and will report back when the solutionbe found.
Thx, again.