Fuel Pump question
 

1997 Boxster 5-Speed. Been having an issue with hard starting when cold. After it cranks and runs awhile it will start right back up and run fine. I feel like it's the fuel pressure in the lines bleeding back into the tank when the car sits for awhile. However I am still open to suggestions if anyone thinks otherwise! What I am wondering is if this car is like my Land Rover in that I did not have to replace the entire pump assembly when it had the same failure. I was able to buy just a small silver pump from AirTex that replaced the pump in the assembly. So I spent $40 instead of $700 for the repair. Anyone know anything on this issue?

Any fault codes present? CEL on? How does it idle? Any other weird symptoms?

Check first if your fuel filter isn't clogged.

Second failing regulator can be tested by pinching the return line. If it doesn't run better the pump maybe the cause. Yes replacing the pump with an aftermarket unit like a Walbro is very much cost effective.

I would look at other avenues before replacing the fuel pump just in case.