Engine hard to start normal?

[Silversvt26]

I just purchased a 2000 holiday rambler with 454 workhorse.
My question is when I try to start it I have to crank it for 4 to 6 seconds
And sometimes press the gas pedal a little for it to start.
Is this normal for an older gas motorhome or could there be something
Wrong?

Thanks for any help,

Jason

[Silversvt26]

Thanks for the replies. I'll see if I can get it into a shop when I get a chance.

Jason

[lfeather]

Sounds like a fuel feed issue. IMO, there is a bad fuel check valve somewhere (fuel pump?) that's allowing the fuel to drain back when you shut down. Then when you crank it, it takes a few seconds for the fuel pump to replenish the fuel to where it's needed.

[Silversvt26]

Well I tried the off on with the keys but it didn't make any difference. I did notice that once it's running and I turn it off and then either immediately try to start it again or wait say 30 seconds, it will start right up. However if I wait say a couple minutes then I have to crank it 4 to 6 seconds again before it will start.

[PaulJ2]

Try this. Turn the key to on for 2-3 seconds than off. Do this twice and then start it up. If it starts instantly you may have a weak/failing fuel pump.

[Silversvt26]

When we first looked at it awhile back it was much cooler and started right up.
When we went to pick it up is when it started being harder to start.
It was 100+ out.
It just turns over and takes maybe 4 to 6 seconds before it
Tries to start. Once it tries to actually start it starts right up.

[ScottG]

Does it labor to turn over when it's hot? If so, it's a common issue.
The starter gets baked by the exhaust. There are heat shields, wraps and solenoid relocation kits that will help.

[K_Charles]

I never saw a brochure for an auto or RV that used "hard starting" as a selling point.