Starting issue

97XJ, 4.0, 231J, AW4, 280K.

I lately have been having trouble starting the XJ. I replaced the starter and battery.

Now she cranks like crazy but takes her sweet time to catch.
I have a feeling it is a fuel issue.
Sometimes if I am impatient, I'll hit the gas pedal and she instantly starts.

Am I correct that it is definitely the fuel pump, or is there something else I should consider first??

Thanks,
Jeff-97XJ

If it's running good, it's probably the check valve in the pump. There are lots of threads on the forum about it. My 93 has been like that for 100K. I just get used to it.