[V8] Slow Starting/Rattlely Engine

[Stafford, Kenneth A.]

> >      Does anyone know what causes slow starting? My 1990 V8 doesn't
> >      like to start the first time you turn it over. The second time
> >      you crank it, it fires right up. Now I just turn the 
> >      key quickly
> >      once, then turn it off - the next turn of the key will 
> >      start it. 

Can't believe it--haven't been off this site for awhile and today I have 2
BTDT's.  I have the identical problems with my '91 auto.  WRT to the slow
starting--my starter finally gave up so I haven't had a chance to pursue it
further.  But the situation is that it will start with one starter
application, but it takes 4-5 secs of cranking; on the other hand it starts
immediately on the second application even if the first one was only for a
half second or so. 
 
> This noise ONLY appears when 
> the engine gets 
> to operating temperature. Between startup and operating temp, 
> the engine is 
> as quiet as a mouse (a tiny bit of lifter tick on occasion).  
> This noise 
> sounds like there is a freaking diesel engine under the hood. 
>  Engine has 
> had entire t-belt service done with new bearings and rollers 
> all around.  I 
> have pulled both valve covers and checked cam chains, they 
> are great. 

And this is also EXACTLY my car's symptoms as well.  Funny thing is that the
noise only started after I had done a T-belt and idlers, etc change.  (I did
NOT change the oil pump bearing--it felt fine and was quiet before the
change.)  I have since taken it apart again to check the belt tension and
tensioner block--every thing was ok.  And it does sound exactly like a
diesel! (only at idle)

Ken
'91 V8 Auto, 200K