Cold idle issue with 89 W201
 

This problem started after I changed out the fuel filter. On cold start it is very hard to get cranked and when it does start the idle is very very low, just basically sputtering. It will not start at all if you apply the gas pedal but will if you just start it without pumping the gas. It will do this 3 or 4 times and then it will start right up, idle normally and run fine.
It did this for a month or so, so I took the fuel filter off that I had replaced and it was nearly completely blocked like the original was. Fuel pressure is normal and injectors and good and clean.

What do I need to check?

fuel
 

drain the tank even flush it a little physical obstruction plugging then shaking away. fuel pumps get weak, filter shouldn't be plugged that soon. idle control switch on throttle linkage not making contact turn adjuster till up hear it clicking.