Expert: Sean Halliday - 12/30/2007

Question
'97 Mazda Protege 1.5L   Once started, it's easy to start within 4 hours. When cold, takes 1 or 2 min. CONTINUOS cranking to start. Have check injectors overnite --no leaks.
coolant sensors within spec. Air temp. sensor resistance too lo  at 60F degree. I substitute a 30kOhm resister, still no luck. The coolant sensor has 3 prongs+ 3 wires connector but wiring diagram show only 2 prong connector for 1995-98 {from Mitchell manual). Fuel Press. leaks back to tank after about 30 min. (cranking 1 sec gets back full pressure)What else causes hard start when COLD?

Answer
The fuel pressure sounds ok at 45 approx at the rail.It should fall after the engine is shut off back to zero which is normal.Your problem is probably the mass air flow sensor or the map sensor.Have you any check engine light recently?I assume you changed the fuel filter?No leaks at the pressure regulator?