1998 Saturn SC1 Engine hard start at first

I have a staurn 1998 saturn SC1. And I have a problem every time I start it I've replaced the O2 sensor, and bought a EGR for 92. So its starting to get expensive, the guy who had it put on a new exhaust it has a cold air intake, but I can't hardly start it sometimes it only happens sometimes, such as when its cold I have to put the clutch in and push the gas in ALLL the way thats a terrible waste, but it starts and then LEVELS out completely fine. We got a number of codes but no " Check Engine Light" at all the computer is not ready we tried to pass it through inspection 3 times. All failed the OBd II test. We reset it by unplugging the battery for an hour, then we tested no codes
then we went back the day before inspection checked it again and got the replace EGR which has been done. And we have yet to take it up there but I fear it is going to fail once again, can anyone help me with this? Hard start. And it would also be nice to help with one more thing as well the engine temperature GAUGE does not WORK AT ALL! This is annoying as I wouldnt know if it over heated only by visual and touching the engine. All I would need to know is how to replace/ reconnect / fix this problem as Im pretty good with the car and helped put the engine in. So thank you!