OK.. since #4 is not a ‘viable workaround’ that removes that puzzle part and makes everything a lot more consistent.
Revisiting the ‘pedal to the metal’ flooding fix, if flooding is the issue, it will still take a bit of cranking to clear out the extra gas, but opening the throttle all the way should allow it to start a bit more reliably. If you find that doing that lets it start ‘easier’ than it was you can probably tell your ‘fixit’ guy that the issue seems to be flooding or similar. Also if that works it will allow you to use the vehicle until you can actually get it looked at. Of course, if that is the issue, your fuel mileage will suffer.
If you know your way around under the hood at all see if you can locate that fuel pressure regulator. It looks like is would be mounted on the end of the fuel distribution pipe that goes to the four injectors (again, assuming that you have port-type FI.) If it really is there, getting the vacuum hose off to check like the second comment says should be easy. That part is showing up as listed for between $70 and $200...the high price is probably dealer.
Someone left some cupcakes with chocolate frosting sitting in front of my hot-caffeinated-beverage making device..
OK. I will try the above listed items, including the cupcakes with chocolate frosting that were left. If there are any left.
I figure if an after-market part is new at a parts warehouse, I shouldn’t have to spend top dollar for the same part with a top dollar parts warehouse when I can get it for a lot of $$$ less.
When all is said and done, I still like to eat and I like nice clothes...especially since I’ve lost 40+ # and am still losing...