gas, vacuum or what?

[etcwhitlock]

I have a 1999 Boxster (986), that has 117,000 miles. It runs great when it is first started, and taken out on the road. however, after a few stops, where the car is turned off and back on, it takes longer and longer to start the car, almost like it is unable to get fuel. The gas cap is in good shape and is non-vented (I hope that is the right type), with no cracks on the gasket or anything like that.

As I drive it more, I hear a sound like an electric motor or pump coming from the passenger side of the car, that is pretty audible. (Gas pump?) 

After about three or four stops, I can start the car by running the starter for a long time, or I release the pressure in the gas tank by removing the gas cap and pressing the spring loaded tab in so the pressure equalizes. 

I have also tried opening the oil fill cap to see if it runs worse (which it does)

Not sure if I have an air oil separator issue, gas tank vent issue, or something else.

Any ideas?

Ed

[JFP in PA]

The early 986's had issues with the EVAP system making noise and causing other issues; do a search, there has been a lot of information posted on this subject.

[crwarren11]

Electric whine sounds like it may be the secondary air pump. But if that were the issue I'd expect you to have a check engine light on.