Starting problems

I have a 98 XJ, 4 litre, 6 cyl, automatic. Until recently it started when I turned the key. In the last week it's developed a starting problem, it turns over and over and eventually catches and then runs and drives fine. Seems to me like it's not getting fuel on start up, tank is full, so I was thinking maybe the fuel pump. I was thinking the fuel filter may need replacing, but read somewhere else online that it doesn't have a fuel filter(??). I've let the coolant run low, so maybe the engine is overheated (temp gauge isn't reliable), but the problem still exists first thing in the morning.

Any ideas on what the problem may be would be appreciated.

Well my 92 started doing this yesterday. I have searched all night and the one thing that keeps coming back up is the check valve failing.

http://www.naxja.org/forum/showthread.php?t=947517&highlight=hard+start+cold
http://www.naxja.org/forum/showthread.php?t=1005258&highlight=hard+start+cold
http://www.naxja.org/forum/showthread.php?t=1012141&highlight=hard+start+cold

There are the three threads I had saved last night. I didn't get too far past that. Hopefully that helps.

Great, thanks. Will check battery and prime it before starting.

How do you check the prime? I am having the same issue with my '97 and I think that it is a gas issue too. Mainly in the AM after sitting all night. During the day while running around, it starts fine.

Appreciate any help.

Jeff

"Prime" comes from turning the key to ON, waiting 3 seconds, then off and repeat twice more. This allows the pump to "prime" the fuel system.