[KKboy]

Hello Everybody,

I have a 2008 Liberty North Edition witn auto trans and 3.7. When the engine is cold, it starts on first turn of the key.. After driving and shutting off, say to fill at gas station, I experience a sputtering
cranking and have to shut off, wait a few seconds and try again. Lately it takes two tries in a row before the engine starts smoothly. Engine temperature when this happens is usually above 96 Celsius (I have a ScanGauge II installed).

No loss of power or surging when driving. No "check engine" light or codes.

Fuel pump/filter was replaced five years ago. Plugs replaced two years ago.

If it's the MAF or the CPS sensors, surely the problem would occur on a cold engine start too. It does not.

So I'm left wondering if it is the TIPM, which I hear is expensive to replace. My original TIPM was replaced under warranty during the first year of ownership

Any suggestions on stuff to check?

 

[lfhoward]

Mine does this too, off and on. I am convinced it is a fuel seal issue allowing backflow of fuel into the tank. It creates a vapor lock situation in the fuel rail over a hot engine. Here is a way to test it: Next time it happens, quickly shut it off, then turn the key to RUN (not start) for a few seconds. The fuel pump will re-pressurize the fuel rail with liquid fuel. Now START and it will start flawlessly.

 

[KKboy]

Thanks, I'll try this technique. I had wondered about vapour lock and wondered if I could insulate the fuel rail. After looking at the way it is attached to the engine I realized that wasn't going to work.
Is the fuel seal part of the fuel pump or just in the fuel line?

 

[lfhoward]

I have read it is inside the fuel pump.