Engine hard to start and jerks hard once only, just before start-up -'93 Ranger

csarsfield

I have a 93 2.6 L dual ignition 2 WD, 5 speed. When starting the engine cold or after its been running and re-starting the engine, it is very hard to start. At start up the idle will oscillate from high (close to where it should be at start-up) to very low (engine almost dies) then after 3 to 4 times of this happening the idle smooths out and runs fine. Also, going uphill, I need to keep the RPM high (constantly down shifting) or the engine will begin to jerk again similar to start-up, a total lack of power. Engine light is not on but is good (have read the codes thru it). I have cleaned the MAF, rebuilt EGR valve, tested the TSP, cleaned the IAC.

Anyone have any idea of the next logical step to take to fix this thing. Please point me in the right direction.

Thanks
Craig