Trouble Starting 88 Sunbird/Stick Shift

HELP!!! I have to put a little gas in the throttle body, by the air filter, to start my car. I have spent almost a grand and several mechanics for no one to figure this out. I was told to get a new fuel pump. I replaced my old one last weekend only to still have the problem. Also when the car is running it will start idling high for no reason and the gas gauge goes up and down. What else should I be looking for/do? I am about to rebuild the engine or just scrap the whole thing.This is a 2L/4Cy. Frustrated BJJ

with a problem so consistant, it should be pretty easy to trace down for a mechanic.

I highly doubt its an engine problem, although anything is possible. Its most likely a engine management problem.

There are many things that could cause your symptoms though. A faulty coolant temp sensor, bad intake air temp sensor, bad map sensor, (if it has it) baro sensor. bad ECM....on and on. Its really best to find a GOOD mechanic. You could spend thousands throwing parts at it.