My 91 camaro Z-28 with a 350 has been really hard to start the past few years. It only gets driven about 500 miles a year now so I never really worried about until today when it took longer than usual. The first start of the day is when I have the most problems. I crank it for about 10 seconds, stop, crank again, stop, crank a third time then finally starts up but stumbles for about 3-5 seconds and then it's ready to shread it's tires. Also when I take of very slow, around 2000rmp, it feels like the engine stumbles for a brief second and clears up. It's worse with the a/c on. Now, I'm not sure if I have 2 problems going on or if it's all the same. I was thinking maybe the fuel pump was going out as I cannot hear anything. However I cannot hear the fuel pump on my 1989 formula with a 350 either and that car has no problems starting at all. I aslo have not checked fuel pressure yet.

 

Yes, that would be the first step.
When you put the gauge on, check that the pressure builds up when you turn the ignition on (fuel pump prime). You are looking for at least 40 psi with engine off and about 35 psi with engine running.

Let us know what you find.
Lou

 

my HELM boock says 41-47 is where it should be.

 

Just got back from sears about 30 min ago and I bought a fuel pressure tester. It will be a few days before I get time to check the pressure. This is done on the passenger side towards the back of fuel rail correct?

 

That is correct.
To gain better access to the Schrader valve, you might want to unbolt the MAP sensor, it helps a lot.

Lou