My '85 245 (200K + miles) has long started almost as quickly as I would turn the key. Over the last 2-3 years this has slowly degraded so that now it may take 4-5 cranks. Recently it didn't start when parked for several hours and started "reluctantly" when I returned with tools the next day. Once started and run for a minute, the car drove well.

To begin my testing in the parking lot I connected a timing light to test for a working electrical system (a Brickboard idea, new to me). I noticed that the light did not flash for several revolutions of the engine but the moment it did, the engine started to fire. (This was an induction timing light).

My Problem: I know how to systematically diagnosis a non-starting engine but this condition of slow starting seems to require more than the go/no go tests so I am looking for ideas. Also, can I trust that the timing light is telling me that it is the electrical system which is slow to respond? If all is well should I expect see the induction light flash as soon as the car begins turning over?