Welcome to the forum and stop wasting your time. No need to guess, you can diagnose this yourself. (Now, the idea of replacing the hoses, clamps, pump and filter IS a good idea...)

THe fuel pressure spec is 58psi +/- 3spi. Measuring the pressure is very easy and there is no reason to guess by pinching hoses. Remember, the "Feedback" hose(s) don't carry much pressure. Order any of the fuel pressure test kits from Amazon or Summit Racing (or even a local parts store) and see what you have. When the key is turned "ON", the pressure should JUMP to 58psi instantly, it should not take time (which it sounds like yours does).

My Ranger was doing this, I'd turn the key and it would crank, sometimes, for 10 seconds or more before it would start. If I'd turn the key to "ON" and count "1-2-3" then to go "START" and it would start instantly. This went on for two years, then, one day, in traffic, the pump failed completely. The tow was $120, the new pump was $960. The fix on the Crossfire is WAY easier, I got help replacing mine but the Ranger was no job for me!

So try my trick: Get in car, turn to "ON", count "1,2,3" and to go start -if it starts instantly, order a fuel pump, hoses, clamps and fuel pressure regulator/filter and fix it! I order such items from Rob at Needswings.com as he sells good stuff that FITS and you don't end up spending two weekends trying to make things fit.

I like this kit, works on what must be 90% or more of vehicles today, Amazon, Summit Racing and others have them. I will never be without it.

LInks dont work here right now, Google:

OTC 5630 Fuel Pressure Test Kit , Black