Hard Starting (Cranks Okay)

If vehicle cranks okay, but is difficult to start or starts and immediately dies, check the following items:

• Ensure sufficient secondary spark is available.
• Ensure distributor pick-up coil resistance is within specification.
• Ensure distributor pick-up coil air gap is correct.
• Ensure ignition coil resistance is within specification.
• Ensure engine has sufficient compression.
• Ensure there are no vacuum leaks.
• Check fuel pump relay.
• Ensure fuel system pressure is correct.
• Check for faulty in-tank fuel pump check valve, allowing fuel from lines to drain back to tank after engine has stopped.
• Check PCV valve for free movement.
• Ensure EGR valve operation is correct and valve closes completely.
• Check air intake system for restriction.
• Check for cracks or poor connections at throttle body (if equipped).
• Ensure ignition and valve timing is correct.
• Check for faulty spark plug wire.
• Ensure noise suppressor (if equipped) has correct resistance.
• Check operation of air induction valve.
• Check Manifold Air Temperature (MAT) sensor.
• Check coolant temperature sensor.
• Check Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) system (Tracker-A/T).
• Check for low compression.