When trying to start while cold (in the morning), It needs to
> be cranked twice.  The first cranking, the motor needs to turn over at least
> 6 times....then on the second cranking, it fires right up.

You should check 3 things:

the pump may not hold the pressure because the internal check valve is
leaking.

the fuel pressure regulator is not holding the pressure when engine is
shut off

the cold start valve is not operating or its temperature sensor is not
kicking in

all these checks are simple to do with a pressure gauge and VOM

Martin Peitz