I'd like to thank everyone who gave input on this. It did turn out to be the fuel pump and it seems to be running fine again.

I would make sure the fuel pump is bad before going through that hassle.

You can do that by measuring fuel pressure, or using starting fluid to get the engine going.

Electrical parts are also susceptible to heat, so you may want to visually confirm you have good spark as well.

Posted by: @bear-cat

I own a 1999 Ford Taurus that I've never had any problems with. In the last couple of months, it will start right up in the morning but if you turn it off you have to wait 1 hour (approx) before it will start again, if you turn it off again you have to go through the same process. it acts like it isn't getting gas or it's flooded. I changed the fuel filter and that worked for about a week. I'm getting ready to drop the tank and change the fuel pump. I was wondering if you've ever seen this before. the mechanic at the dealership looked at me like I was nuts. Thanks for your time.

Your fuel injectors may be dripping fuel. If it cranks but doesn't start, hold the throttle wide open (pushing the gas down all the way) and attempt to start it. If it starts, your injectors are worn out. Having messed around with carbureted cars for three years, when I pump the gas too many times, I hold the gas wide open to clear the flooding. They simply carried over the analog procedure to the digital age. 

When it doesn't start can you hear the fuel pump running for a couple of seconds when you turn the key to ON?

Posted by: @bear-cat

I'm getting ready to drop the tank and change the fuel pump.

Have you tested the pump and verified that it is bad? Checked the pump relay?

Forget the dealership, that thing is older than most of the technicians there and what dealers are best at is emptying your wallet.

See the troubleshooting section of the FAQ for more information.