Honda Repair: starting the engine, shift cable, dash lights

Question
1990 Honda Accord -

sometimes the car has trouble starting - it turns over, then the engine engages, but a moment later it dies (whether or not I push the accelerator).  this is more likely to happen if the engine was shut off, then restarted a few seconds later.

also - in cold weather, it's very difficult to remove the key after i turn the car off

Answer
Larry,
When the car dies, do your dash lights go out? If so you have a bad ignition switch. That is what it sounds like you are describing.
As far a the key goes, sounds like your shift cable is binding up or out of adjustment. The key will not come out of the ignition if the car thinks it is in gear.
Thanks for your question,
Gene