1 hour ago, Yarb said:

During this procedure will the fuel normally bypass the regulator and go to my return tank? On Initial turnover I’m getting 36psi and after it sits for a few minutes it drops down to 10lbs static. Meanwhile I’ve sent a lot of fuel to the return tank.

Yes, that's how the system works.  Fuel passes through the regulator back to the tank after 36 psi is reached.  The fact that it leaks down after the engine dies might affect starting time but won't affect how it runs once it starts.  You have a running problem not a starting problem.

So the needle nose technique causes restraint in the system. Does that point to the regulator if it runs?

It will restrict the flow back to the tank therefore stopping the 36psi to 10psi. Just another trouble shooting technique I've used.

Do you have the OEM FPR still? They rarely go bad but they do occasionally. The aftermarket ones are $^!#.

The factory oe is on it now. Have a Bosch 64018 replacement coming tomorrow 

He's reaching 36 psi.  The pump and regulator seem to be fine.  Leakdown happens when the pump is not running, it's a starting problem.  I think that we might be getting our diagnostic methods mixed together here.  

The new FPR will probably not fix your running problem.  The engine will just start and die more quickly.

Just trying to be clear....

Not sure where to go from here. It turns over, I have spark, acts like it’s begging for fuel.

4 hours ago, Zed Head said:

Just pop off the plug at the round sensor/switch on the side of the engine block..  Turn the key on and the pump should start running.  It's a good test of the fuel pump control system.

When you're working with these EFI systems you really need to make a list of things to check and follow it, unless you have a really good memory.  Make a list then run through it, check, check, check....  Otherwise things will look like just a bunch of random actions and results.

More than likely from sitting dormant for 12 years, the fuel has gummed up / seized many or all of the injectors causing them to not spray fuel with the pulse.   Try to listen to them while a assistant is cranking the motor.  They make a distinctive click sound, a stick or long screwdriver held to your ear works well.

Thanks Zed, I’ll let you know what I find

Injectors were sent to HPI and rebuilt. New OEM pump. While apart I checked the AFM, TPS, Thermotime switch for CSV and the thermostat to ECU. Went step by step by the FSM. Only part could not check static was the fuel pressure regulator. Definitely had corrosion issues on most connectors which I resolved. All vacuum and fuel lines replaced. Thanks for your input much appreciated

8 hours ago, Yarb said:

Injectors were sent to HPI and rebuilt. New OEM pump. While apart I checked the AFM, TPS, Thermotime switch for CSV and the thermostat to ECU. Went step by step by the FSM. Only part could not check static was the fuel pressure regulator. Definitely had corrosion issues on most connectors which I resolved. All vacuum and fuel lines replaced. Thanks for your input much appreciated

above is a test you can do.