96 Cavalier Z24 hard starting

I have a 96 Chev Z24 with 160k miles on it. I have noticed lately that when it is parked on uphill slope, nose up for a couple of days that it is really hard to start. If I park it nose downhill it is almost normal starting.

Is there some type of backflow switch that I should check out? Could it be the fuel pump? If it is the fuel pump where is it located and how hard is it to remove?

Any info would be appreciated. Feel free to respond to email address of XXXXX@xxxxx
Thank you.

 

If this is your only issue, perhaps it indeed is check valve related.

What exactly is your definition of hard starting?

 

This vehicle uses an oil pressure switch in the fuel pump circuit. What could be happening, is its taking longer for the oil pressure to build up enough to allow the fuel pump to kick on, because the oil pick up tube isn't fully submerged, being parked on that angle. When the car is parked nose down, the oil pickup tube is submerged, which pretty much allows instant oil pressure while cranking the engine. The fuel pump will not kick on until a sufficient oil pressure is reached.

 

I would have to crank and crank on it before it would start. Acted like it wasn't getting gas but I could hear the pump running, at least it sounded like the pump in the rear of the car.

 

I like your username, reminds me of myself.

I read your reply and checked the oil level. It was about a quart low. I added a quart of oil and it seems to start fine but I didn't have it on that sloped area. I will park it there today and let it sit overnight to see what it does.

From what you tell me and the way it was starting it sounds like you nailed it for me. With the amount of miles on the car the oil pressure could be dropping just enough to where it isn't holding enough pressure overnight and with the incline, etc that could explain the starting problem.

Thanks for the info, will give it a check today and let you know how it went in a couple of days. thanks again.