Mitsubishi Repair: 96 Lancer GL 1.5L 2 door 5sp manual Japanese import, mass air sensor, perth west australia

Question
Hi Anthony, when I cold start my 96 lancer GL 1.5L (185,000 kms) the motor runs rough (stalls when pump the gas)for about 3-5 minutes.  soon as it warms up a little will run great rest of day or until cold again.  Sort of like the old cars of the 60's with dodgy chokes.  Is there a quick fix, costs?  Also is it worth installing an air-con (wreckers purchased) on a model this old? Degree of difficulty for back yarder?  Not after install instructions:-)! Thanks in advance from Perth, West Australia.

Answer
John,
When the engine is cold, the car's computer relies on the idle speed controller and throttle bypass to allow enough air to enter the engine.  If the amount of measured air that the computer is expecting is different than what's actually getting into the engine, an improper amount of fuel would be supplied, and hence causing rough idle.  You may just need a tune-up to clean out your intake, inspect your mass air sensor and check your fuel injectors to ensure everything is working properly.
Good luck!