Trouble Starting

05 Starter turns over several times before the van starts in the morning. Worried that when winter rolls around it won't start. Looking for ideas to trouble shoot the problem. Thanks.

First guess: fuel rail is leaking down while the engine is off.
(does it start easily during the rest of the day?)

2nd to Nth guesses: (alphabetically listed)
CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR SIGNAL PROBLEM
CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR SIGNAL PROBLEM
ECM CODES PRESENT
ECT SENSOR
ENGINE CONTROL MODULE
ENGINE DRIVE GEAR/SPROCKET
FUEL SUPPLY CONTAMINATION
FUEL SYSTEM PRESSURE MECHANICAL
FUEL SYSTEM RESTRICTION
GLOW PLUGS
SKIM CODES PRESENT <-- are there stored codes?
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That list was from page 239 in the 2006 Powertrain Diagnostic manual: http://www.diysprinter.co.uk/reference/2006-VA-Powertrain.pdf
The full service manual is there, too: http://www.diysprinter.co.uk/reference/2006-VA-SM.pdf

--dick

Yes it does start easy later in the day. Thanks.

holdem,
What is your starting sequence/protocol?
Do you turn the key to the 2nd position and wait for the glow plug light to come on, then go off?
If not, you may be start your engine without the cold start assist from the glow plugs to light off
the cold slightly less atomized diesel fuel for the first turn or two of the engine.
As suggested by autostaretx a test of your injectors, glow plugs, glow plug controller and the other
sensors should help to put your Sprinter back into top shape and have it start on the first turn of the
engine every time, hot or cold engine.
You will not see more than a quick flash of the glow plug light when your engine is fully warmed up
as the glow plugs are not required as the engine and cylinder head are already up to temperature
and the fuel system is fully warmed up as well.
Roger

Any check engine light? Read any codes (active or pending) from the ECU. That will give us a better idea of what direction to point you in...