Okay, so here were my symptoms: (someone please add this to a sticky somewhere - wolfgang you may want to add to your site:

A) The car would have a hard time starting when left off for more than a few hours.
B) I looked for the little red LED to flash (by the Low Range switch) when I turned the key
C) If I left the key in position 2 for more than 30 seconds, and then cranked, she would start right away.

What that simple procedure did was immediately rule out:

1. DAS (Driver authorization systems)
2. Battery
3. Crank Shaft Position sensor.

So the only thing left was the fuel delivery system.
As MBDOC and others pointed out - the most probable cause was the check valve integrated into the fuel filter unable to maintain fuel pressure after I leave the car off for several hours. When I turned the key to position 2 it activated the fuel pump and re pressurized the rails.
2 tankfuls of Techron DID not help....

So I went to my trusty dealer and of course because my ML is a 1999, I cannot just change the fuel filter. In 2001, when they changed my fuel sender, they put in the OLD system!!! I had to update the pump and the lines.
Total cost parts and labor was around $1030 - VERY reasonable in my opinion, and best of all SHE'S ALL FIXED!!!!! and STARTS LIKE A DREAM.

Here are some advantages of having done this fix:

A) She pulls VERY STRONGLY off the line, and there is ZERO delay in passing from 55mph to 90mph - just keeps PULLING AND PULLING
B) ANY hint of a slight rumble at idle after a hard run is GONE
C) Fuel economy is up.




Thanks everyone!