98 Tacoma - long cranking before starting - help !

Hello, I am new to this forum, I tried a search for this but was unsuccessful. (but could be operator error)
I have a '98 2.4L ExCab SR5.
When engine is cold (first crank of the day or has been sitting several hours) it takes about 5 seconds of cranking before engine starts.
Once engine is warm, it starts right up.
Want I have done so far:

• Replaced fuel filter (Toyota OEM filter)
• Replaced air filter
• Cleaned throttle body
• Cleaned MAF sensor
• (I did use cleaners made for specific purpose.)
• Also checked TPS with volt meter.

Any tips on what else I can do.

 

Check your spark plug gaps and replace them as needed.

 

Battery old?
Spark plugs old? Also Coil packs/Wires.
Maaaaybe worn starter...(but probably not)

 

You can get your starter/alternator tested for free at AutoZone or O'Reilleys, they can at least rule that out (or suggest it may be the issue).

 

Faulty fuel pressure regulator, maybe

 

Thanks for the replies.

• Plug wires replaced 55,000 miles ago - is there a way to test them? Or should they be replaced either way ?
• Spark plugs replaced 6,000 miles ago.
• Starter seems to spin as usual. I will take your suggestion and have it tested.
• Battery is 1 year old. - but I'll get it checked.
• Fuel pressure regulator - I was advised to pull off the vacuum hose after stopping the engine to see if any fuel comes out - indicating the regulator diaphragm was bad - no fuel leaked out. Is there another way to test for functionality ??
• Coil packs - Is there a way to test them ??

Your help and suggestions - much appreciated.

 

Check your spark plug gaps.

 

Could be that your battery has a bad cell, happened on my last car even though the battery was only a year or so old. Would sometimes take awhile to crank, a few times it wouldn't turn over at all.

 

Wow this brings back Memories Of Jen and Eric leaky fuel injectors ??

 

My truck does the same thing on cold starts and it's because I'm using larger injectors. Might be worth checking them out. They're pretty easy to get to, not sure how you'd test them but I'm sure there's literature out there.

 

^^Yup^^

 

Since you are 'cranking', then your battery and starter are not the issue.

I agree with Wyoming09, that the issue is most likely leaky injector(s).
They gradually flood the cylinders when the fuel rail is under pressure after the
motor turns off. While still hot, that fuel vaporizes easily. But, after a while, the motor
cools down, and liquid fuel accumulates in the cylinder(s) creating a flooded condition,
so it takes a few more seconds to expel the liquid gasoline before it can ignite.

Another potential cause is a faulty coolant temp sensor.

 

I'm with Rick and Wyoming09...

 

I found the spark plugs over gaped at .041
My book says .032. I replaced with Specified NGK (also replaced the plug wires)
Problem still there.
I will look into getting the injectors, pressure regulator, and coolant temp sensor checked.
Thanks again

 

Hello again, due to circumstances I have not been able to continue work on my truck till now.
I plan to replace:
Injectors
Fuel pressure regulator
Temp sensor

Should l use Toyota OEM or aftermarket ??
I have heard good about both . (Toyo being more costly)
Anyone have any links to get reputable parts?
And any tips or links replacing injectors ?
Thank you in advance !