1992 buick regal won't start in the mornings after sitting overnight. when i try it in the early afternoon it starts right up

Speed sensor gone bad .

it may have jumped timing.

GM OBD Trouble Code 17

You may be right, but if it is a sensor you should get a check engine light and a trouble code for the lost signal.
Could also be something like a fuel pump relay or idle air control valve.

I would have to guess that its the antitheft security system. This link explains. http://vatspasslockpasskeysecurityhelp.yolasite.com/

The Crankshaft Position Sensor is a common problem on these cars, and produces those symptoms. use a ScanTool to check for codes.

Crank sensor. Next time it does this spray some water on it and see if it cranks. Its by the crankshaft pulley towards front of car.

When you disconnect the battery cables, do you disconnect both or just the negative and how old is the battery. Sulfated cells in the battery will cause the same condition.

Most of the time the culprits are the glove box light or trunk light left on. However the light dimming module should turn them off after they have been on for 20 minutes or so on your vehicle.

I would start by disconnecting the wiring at the alternator and let it set over night and see if it starts in the morning.

It turned out the ground wire to the battery was loose, Evidently, it loosened up when driving so mimiced the earlier symptoms because it connection was sporadic. I hooked up to a computer to verify after connection tightened and it came away with no errors or problems.