thanks david! ive researched several of your other posts on this issue. im trying to work back up the chain here, so my next test should be the power stage. if its not getting the correct signal from the ECU, then the problem is the ECU or the crank position sensor. is there a way to test the signals from the power stage to the coil, or the ECU to power stage with simple equipment (multimeter)? im wondering if these components are testable since the signals are pulses instead of steady voltages. im trying like hell to avoid replacing the CPS. its sounds like a tough job.

some more background on the issue:
every morning after sitting for the night..it has problems starting. usually after about 10-15 attempts to start, it will just start right up and run like there was no problem...it sits in teh parking lot all day at work and starts fine to go home, but in the AM, no go. it turns over fine, and if i let it keep turning over sometimes, the engine will sort of just stop, even though the key is in the start position. usually after i get to this point it will start shortly thereafter. if once it starts, i shut it off within a few minutes, i will also have a hard time restarting, but if i drive for a half hour or so i won't have a problem.