I checked the fuel pressure regulator for leakage out the vent line that goes to the PCV hose at the valve cover. It was dry and held a little vacuum applied with a Mity-Vac, so I think the FPR okay.

Turning the key to ON appears to briefly energize the fuel pump, which should be the case, but it's tough to hear them.

I also cycled the connectors on the EZL since the FPR needs a pulse signal from the EZL to energize the fuel pumps during cranking.

My next job was to test the fuel pump relay, but I couldn't get it out of the socket. Is there a release tab that must be pushed? I didn't see one and didn't want to force it.

There is no check engine light and no codes. The ABS light goes out after getting it started, so I don't suspect the OVP. The problem is only occuring on hot or cold starting. Once the engine is running stably after a few seconds, everything is normal, cold or hot, including cold fast idle.

If anyone has experienced a similar hard cold or hot starting problem and found the problem can you chime in.

Duke