Vehicle has about 160K but for last 100k it has had an unusual starting issue. 95% it starts normal and very quickly...independent of ambient temperature. Then unpredictably it will just crank and crank with no signs of starting. When it finally does start it bellows extreme amounts of white smoke. After that it is fine again. Will happen a couple times a season. Any ideas?

 

Most likely an injector issue.The may be leaking slightly and putting gas into the engine when it sits.Then when you try to start it,the car is slightly flooded and is Picky.
The water thermo-sensor is also a thing to look at IF your car has a Hot start problem,But this is not the case here.
Do not park your car on a upward incline,and before you shut it off REV it to say 3500 and then hit the key off.That seems to help.
That is until you get your injectors cleaned.That is the only Real sure fire solution.

 

have your injectors cleaned ultrasonically, and tested at your local shop, replace o-rings, clean fuel rail(brake cleaner usually does the trick). put everything back together. if problem continues, more than likely, as mentioned earlier, leaking bad injectors.

 

Thanks guys. Will get the injectors cleaned and see if it does the trick.

 

You may have a hot start issue... I have the same on my tII.. if your compression is getting to low in the 85s the engine will crank excessive till oil coats the housing and raises comp. Check your compression if this is the case running premix may help