still battling hard start/cold start

[Ameer Antar]

>NEW INFO:  I discovered that if I allow more time - approx 30 seconds -
>after the first time cranking it fires right up on the 2nd try.  If I
>wait only 3-5 seconds between attempts I must try several times, each
>time with increased success until it finally starts.  What could be
>happening during this 30 seconds after the first cranking attempt????
>Once running I can kill it and restart easily until it sits for 4-5
>hours again.

this sounds like the system isn't holding pressure properly, even when the pump is
running. Maybe there is a clog somewhere in the supply or return lines? Make sure
all fuel fittings on the sender in the trunk as well as under the hood aren't loose.
I'd check the fuel pressure under different conditions. That should tell something
like irregular or low pressure, maybe too much?? I'd keep the gauge hooked up
and check back after 4-5 hrs or w/ and w/o the ISV connected. Are there any
problems w/ the motor, like compression, ignition, etc?

>problem exactly like this in the archives.  The car happily holds 1.4
>and does not overboost so I'm ass-uming no vac leaks.
>

actually you can have vac leaks even w/ 1.4 or whatever boost. If the duct on top
of the air-flow sensor leaks, the turbo will still be sucking in air for 1.4 bar boost,
but not only through the air-flow sensor, some from the engine bay. That's a vac
leak. I'd at least give this a look. Good luck.

-ameer