[asphaltgambler]

The most likely problem would be a failed check valve in the fuel pump. The built in check valve will hold system pressure when the vehicle is shut down. If there is no fuel pressure present while starting, there will be air pockets and low pressure initially resulting in prolonged cranking until there is enough pressure to get it going.

The best way to determine this is to use a pressure gauge, start it and leave it connected when shutting down. Wait an hour or so and the pressure should be close or equal to the running pressure. Any drop off indicates a loss in the system. Usually it's the pump or possibly leaky injector or return pressure regulator.

The last two, if failing, will usually show themselves during engine operation with poor performance, raw fuel smell and rough running. If these two problems are not present then you could try a OE brand fuel pump if you don't have access to a fuel pressure gauge.