I have 1997 with 5.4L (115K miles). The first start in the morning is difficult. The engine will turn over, but requires multiple attempts before starting. The engine acts like it is starved for fuel. I plan on replacing the fuel filter. After the initial start, all other attempts are normal (until the next morning). Is there anything else I should look at?

 

If fuel filter has never been replaced, I would say it is about 3 or 4 filters overdue. Usually should be changed every 30 k. Also maybe should check your plugs if they have never been changed. Of course, these are all general things to look at, but your computer may have logged some codes also.

 

By all means check for any codes if you can. Autozone does it for free but I've found if the CEL is not on they may give you a hard time about checking.

When you turn the key you can hear the fuel pump run for about 2 seconds. Try this a few times before you try starting it. If the problem clears it's fuel pump related.

I have a 4.2 V-6 that does the same thing. No codes. Nothing that anyone can diagnose. When I park in my heated underground parking it starts normal.

I've heard this before on this site but have never heard of a resolution.

 

This is a very limited situation but something to think about. Just because the fuel pump is kicking on, doesn't mean its making the required pressure to start your vehicle.

 

Plugs

 

Did this just start when it got colder? Does it start if you lightly press the gas pedal down? If so one of the first things I would do is to change or at least remove and clean the IAC valve. This is a lot more difficult on the 5.4 than the 4.6. Typically when there starts to be problems with the IAC it is difficult to start for the first time each day and it will not idle properly on that start.