96 liberty(legacy) starting + stalling +

My 96 Subaru liberty starts every morning and after work without fail but if I go somewhere for 1-2 hours it won't start first time when i get back in, just goes "cheg cheg cheg" etc.
Usually I pump the accelerator and it starts after 2 -5 times Any idea's

Also if I go up a hill just after starting (morning or during day) it starts to loose power and eventually stalls, usually restarts fine but sounds really weak (not much power)
it is an automatic!



Been told need new Transmission + new Engine??? but just don't want to believe it!
Apperently engine is loosing Compression but getting it back somehow?

Any help or advice would be great!