Hard Starting

[cheibu69h70454@netzero.com]

I have a 2000 camaro 3.8L with an auto trans., I am having issues starting my car, the car will crank for 7-8 seconds before the car starts or I can press the gas pedal and the car will start right up but when I do that there is a smell of gas after its starts. The car will crank without a problem but it take too long before it starts. Do you have any ideas? thank you in advance for your help.

[craby]

it sounds like you have a rich condition. when was the last time you had new spark plugs? when you press the gas pedal it lets air into the intake manifold. does not add gas so if thats helping you may have fouled plugs or fouled 02 sensors or plugged air filter. would be a good idea to have the car scanned for trouble codes at the local parts store.

[z28pete]

Check the ignition, as Craby said. If the problem remains, there could be a leaky injector that is allowing fuel into the intake when the engine is off. Do a fuel pressure test and note if the pressure drops quickly after the engine is shut off.

[cheibu69h70454@netzero.com]

Thank you for the advice!
I recently changed the spark plugs and O2 Sensor within the last 4 months when I rebuilt the motor. The air filter is KN filter which has been cleaned within the last 4 months.
The intake manifold gasket let go, filling the motor up with brown crap blocking the oil passages and spinning number 5 bearing.
I have a scan tool and there are no codes within the ECM.
Can you tell me what I need to look for testing the fuel pressure?
do you have any other ideas? I appreciate all the help you can provide.
Thank you

[craby]

look at 34 here, 4th Gen LT1 F-Body Tech Aids test should be the same for the 3.8 just gota find the fitting to hook in. i think your pressure is higher for the 3.8 like 45-50

[cheibu69h70454@netzero.com]

thank you for the link, I appreciate your help!