Opinion needed on a guttless 99 3.8, lack of power again!!!

I had a similar 'lack of power, sputtering, slight popping' problem last year on my 99 3.8. I changed the fuel filter, pump, cleaned the MAF, routed the PCV valves together (thinking that may be an issue because I never seen a set-up like that before), checked plugs, coil packs, wires,,,, then I bought a fuel pressure tester. It was at 28 psi steady, but increased slightly when I unplugged the 'thingy' right above the fuel rail valve (regulator maybe??)
I replaced the fuel pump, again, cleaned and filled the tank full, and the pressure went up to 35psi and ran fine. I didn't drive it for 5 months during the winter, but it started and ran great. Now the pressure is at 30psi, and runs slightly higher (33-34), more steady when I unplug the 'thingy' above the rail valve. What should the pressure actually be. I heard it should be at least 35psi,, anyone know for sure, or am I looking in the wrong area for the wrong cause?

Thank you to all that take the time to help.

CardinalsFan12 said:

I just went through a similar problem. I took it to a Ford dealer, and they ran a diagnostic test on it. Found out i needed a new coil pack, and told me this what making the sputtering feeling I felt. It may not be similar, but maybe check the coil pack.

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I checked everything sooooo many times, every plug, wire, sensor, vacuum hose, wires, coil pack, etc,,,. I know the engine area pretty well now though! I decided to remove the Harmonic Balancer just to rule it out as a timing issue. It was cracked right down the key slot and the woodruff key carved a new space about 4-5 times what it should be. I guess that's something to consider as a possible suspect! Unfortunately, I haven't been able to get one yet, only the 99-00 will work, and none of the local parts stores (including Ford) carry them. I'll update this post when I locate a part.