I have an intermittent starting problem. If the car sits for very long (more than 24 hours) it doesn't want to start right away.
I'm not sure if its condensation or what.
I went out today after not starting the ar in about 10 days and it just cranks with a couple puffs here and there but no start.
I let it sit about an hour, then went out, still nothing. I pulled the CAI and filter off so it was basically open to the MAF, and it fired after about 3 or 4 seconds of cranking. The filter looks slightly dirty but not bad enough to be choking it out. I'll clean it anyway, but any other guesses as to what the problem is?

 

Is it possible you have a leaking injector(s) and it is flooding the cylinder(s) when it leaks down after an extended period of sitting? When you try and start it, put the accelerator all the way to the floor, then turn the key to start it, keeping your foot on the floor until it starts. If this helps it start faster, it will confirm the injector(s) leaks, since putting your foot on the floor puts the PCM into "clear flood" mode.

You could also check your fuel pressure to see how fast it "leaks down". If it doesn't hold a reasonbly high pressure for a few hours after shutdown, it could be a bad check valve in the fuel pump, a ruptured diaphragm in the fuel pressure regulator, or the previously mentioned leaking injectors.

 

well, I tried the "foot to the floor" technique when I first had problems starting it and it didn't make a difference. This is what makes me think taking the filter and CAI off was just coincidence that it started.

I questioned the opti too, it was supposedly replaced within the last 10-15k miles though. And since this problem has only happened maybe 2 or 3 times in the last year, I am not even sure how to diagnose it...

 

Well I'm the one that wants your car. Aside from that try something else. Turn your key on but don't start. Hold the key there for 10 seconds and then turn it off. Do this 5 times. After the 5th time try to start it.

If it starts right up then what Injuneer said is correct. A leaky injector will not hold fuel in the fuel line and it will allow it to leak back to the tank.

If that is the case clean the injectors like I do with the 3M fuel rail kit. If I come to see you, I will bring my kit and do it for you. You only have to buy the cans of cleaner.

Tell me more about the 69. Is the engine out. It's not clear whether this is your car since the price is different and says "link to other cars"

I need to plan to get there and need ideas.

Thanks
Dave

 

Thanks for the ideas, I'll check it out. I sent you an email about the 69.