Well, my '98 3.8 six-cyl. takes three or so tries to start when
cold....If temps overnight are moderate, it's not an issue.

After about a month of getting frustrated with that, I got an check
engine light, which reported  a half-lean condition.  Not sure if they
were related or not. Did some casting about, seemed that the Idle air
control valve was a very likely suspect. So, I replaced that yesterday.

This morning I had the same starting problem. Once it starts, it revs
about 1200 rpm. Then I shift it into reverse, rpms drop significantly,
and if I am not quick on the throttle, it will stall.

Any thoughts?