I couldn't see any cracks in the coil housing. If there are any(as you say)and were causing problems you would be having misfire issues. Cracks can be sealed up with a good RTV.
I would suspect low fuel pressure. Try letting the fuel pump run for a few seconds before cranking it and see if that makes a difference. Pressure may be slow building up to the proper level. 46 psi I believe.
Good luck,
--
Tom 69-1800S, 72-1800ES, 96-850T,2000-S70 GLT-SE

Why would a crack in the housing cause a misfire?

I will try and take and post a picture with another camera to get closer in to these cracks and show the detail better.

Hmmm. I would ask for a second or third opinion, the "crack" looks like where the plastic was moulded together and should not be a problem. Besides, the boot should keep any moisture out.

I would suspect fuel delivery problems for the extra long crank. Clogged fuel filter, slow running pump, fuel pressure regulator, dirty plugs. Look for the fuel pump last, that is extremely expensive and a real pain to replace because the tank has to be dropped along with a few other parts on an AWD.
--
My name is Klaus and I am a V ♂ lv ♂ holic.

No offense, but the cracks are definitely NOT along any area where they where plastic was moulded/welded together from the factory. Each one is a hairline crack and you can see the metallic coil material underneath the unit. Its as though (and Im guessing here) some electrical surge caused the plastic casing to "pop" or swell and it caused the crack.
Whether or not having this metal exposed is detrimental or not to their function is what Im after.
However, you certainly make a good point to check other components first (I changed the plugs out last week- noticed no difference). A check of the fuel filter and regulator is wise and I will do that...
~jason

In defense of the dealer, the design of the engine traps a lot of heat under the black cover which can not be good for the coil overs. FCP Groton has them for about $54 each. Shop around for a better price, I looked at parts for a 1999.
--
My name is Klaus and I am a V ♂ lv ♂ holic.