+1^ very thorough explanation Captain...though we disagree on a couple things...lol

 

Well I changed the fuel pump today. No change. Still starts hard. I really really doubt I got a defective pump, it's not very common. I have also noticed now under part throttle acceleration I get small lags in power. You can feel the engine feel like it drops off in power for a second or two. It's NOT a misfire and it's pretty slight. I only notice because I am paying attention. What is the next step as it was not a fuel pump problem or the pump was one of a few issues..

 

Defective pumps are more common than you might think, especially with aftermarket pumps Fuel delivery is critical on this engine, and many brand new pumps do not meet the requirements. Don't assume that the new pump is good, verify the repair by checking the pressure and leakdown at both places. It only takes a few minutes, and it might just save you from going on a goose chase, needlessly.

 

I checked pressure, the second the key comes on it shoots up to about 65 psi then drops to about 58 the second the pump stops then stays at 55psi and doesn't drop anymore. You can tell the pressure regulator is stopping the psi from climbing any higher with how fast it reaches 65psi and stops climbing. I noticed today that sometimes it starts right up and sometimes it cranks over for probably 3-4 seconds before starting.

 

I JUST went out any tried it. Key on pressure hit 65 psi, tried cranking and it cranked for 4 seconds before firing with 65psi on the gauge while cranking. I can't believe the pump to be at fault. 65psi is more than enough to start these engines from what I have read.

 

Good job. That was the next test... to see if you lose fuel pressure when it doesn't start. Next step is see if it loses spark when it doesn't start. Install a spark tester inline in the coil wire. Adjust the air gap to about 1/4" and try cranking. The coil should be plenty strong to jump the gap and start the engine. http://www.autozone.com/autozone/acc...fier=10257_0_0_

 

I'll test it today and get back to you.

 

Tried it just now, sparking normally when trying to start.

 

Cranked 3-4 seconds then started?

 

That is correct