My 96 Protege 1.5l hesitates when I crank it with the fuel pump connected. If I disconnect it, it cranks over as it normally did before I started getting hesitation with no starts and starting with hesitation and dieing. Does this mean my problem is my fuel pump? I've replaced my fuel filter and the strainer seems not to be clogged and I know the pump is working cause I could hear it fill up the new filter when I primed it. Replaced spark plugs, distributor cap & rotor, and fuel filter. Also I can Google hangout you if you want to see what I'm talking about.

 

You may have a short in an electrical wire harness. Voltage drop testing could give you some clue.
Google for voltage drop test. There is a very good explanation on some Jeep related forum.

It can really help to figure out what happens and which part is on the fritz. That will save you money. Throwing parts at it may or may not solve this.

 

Hey, I ended up testing my fuel pump for max pressure. I was only getting about 43 psi and service manual called for 72-92 psi. Replaced that and the only way I can get it started is by disconnecting the coolant temperature sensor. once it warms up this way and it stalls or dies or whatever, I have to let the engine cool off completely before it will start again.

 

Also, my throttle position sensor is misadjusted. (which I suspected) So my car struggles going up hill and lacks power on acceleration.

 

update:noticed my car pulls better after plugging mass air flow sensor in