Mass Air Flow problem (Code 34)

Make: Pontiac
model: Firebird
year: '89
mileage: 102k
engine size: 2.8L V6

For approximately 2 - 3 weeks, the "service engine soon light" has been on. After determining the troubleshooting code is 34, the repair manual says that the MAF sensor needs to be replaced.

Unfortunately, when he ordered the new part, the inner hole was thicker than the original and produced it to crack. However, my dad who is an electronic whiz determined that the electronic reading on both the new and old MAF seems to be about the same.

In the past, the car would start without a problem, but lately it would take two to three starts to finally ignite the engine. Now, holding down on the gas pedal is sometimes necessary to get the engine started.

My dad is hesitant to replace because he feels it's not the MAF sensor and could be something else. Sometimes the car starts fine on the first try. Other times, it would take two or three starts. But on the last resort where I would hold down on the pedal, it would start most of the time. Suggestions are greatly appreciated!