When I do a cold (first of day, regardless of temp) start, it takes 8 cranks to start up, but it always does.

However, if I turn the key part way before i start it, i can hear the fuel pump pressurize and it starts in about 3 cranks. it also starts normal after the first start of the day. It has only been doing this the last couple months.

I have a new battery/terminals, new plugs and wires, new fuel filter. any ideas on how this can be fixed?

 

Sounds like the fuel line is not holding pressure after an extended period. Probably a very small leak somewhere in the system.

 

any kinda test to locate where the leak is?

 

If there's a leak other than inside the gas tank, you would smell gas when driving. Most likely, it is leaking back through the check valve in the pump. The gas drains out of the lines back into the tank while the car is parked.

 

is this valve part of the pump, so if I replaced the whole thing, the problem would be solved?

 

Yes but the pump is kind of expensive so most people just live with the delayed starting instead.