Truck doesn't start, can't figure this one out!

I have a 2001 F150 4x4 4.2l w/ 114,000 miles on it. Within the last week my truck has had trouble starting. The first 2 times it would just turn but wouldn't turn over and start. I pulled the key out and tried it a few more times then waited 5 minutes and then it started up. The past 2 times I turn the key and it almost starts up and runs very rough for about a second and then kills over. I've had to let it sit for over an hour but then sure enough it started up. I've disconnected and reconnected the battery and there also isn't any codes.

I'm thinking it might be the ignition starter switch? Am I on the right path or could it be something else?
Thanks in advance guys!

 

Doesn't the motor spin but not run?
When it does run, does it run rough?

 

Yeah it just spins but doesn't turn over.

And when it does start, it runs great, just like normal.

 

Have you changed the plugs?

It almost sounds like its being flooded...

 

I did the plugs and wires about 4,000 miles ago.

 

have you checked the fuel pressure? Sounds like it could be a failing fuel pump

 

No, that's one thing I haven't done.
What would be the best way to do this?

 

go to o'reilly's, autozone etc and rent a fuel pressure gauge, and hook it up to the small valve on your fuel rail and turn the key on. IIRC, it should be about 45psi on a 4.2. If it is not, fuel pump is probably gone south.

 

Thanks man!
I know this is a stupid question but, when I read the pressure gauge the truck should NOT be running, correct?

 

Here is a simple trick to try. Next time it gives you fits, grab a can of starting fluid and spray in the air intake. If it fires right up, its a fuel issue. If it still doesnt start, its ignition.

I had a s10 that did this one time. It was very hard to start but once it did start, it ran great.

The issue was the fuel pump supplied enough pressure to make it run but not enough to start the truck.

It takes more fuel pressure to start a vehicle than to make it run.