I have a 1995 saturn sl1. when i push the clutch in it idles up to about 3k rpms. then it tries to dies. if it does die, i have too hold the gas pedal to the floor to start it again. any suggestions?

After 14 years I think it would be reasonable to have bad catalytic converter. Is there some reason your not accepting this?

Fuel related have your fuel pressure checked prob a fuel pump

Remove, clean and inspect the idle control valve on the throttle body. These tend to clog up over time, or the stepper motor fails. Check this before anything else.

Sounds like your IAC (Idle Air Control) valve may not be functioning properly, although not at all related to a battery change.

Are you getting a check engine light? If yes, then take it to any auto-parts store for a free scan to determine any fault.

I would guess it's fuel injectos are dirty. I like the Chevron Techron Fuel System cleaner - worked great in my 1999 SL2.

idle is too low you see the problem with saturn sl1 is its a single cam engine that puts out only 100hp and when you get into low idling such as 800 rpms where it should be idling at when you hit the a/c the rpms drop a good 150 so turn the idle up more or is it during driving conditions?

if your rpm's are going up and down on there own i would have a scan done too see if the tps sensor is gone, this controls the idle, and other things as well

sounds like your alternator is not charging.I would have that checked first.Also check battery terminal bolts/ cables

spray the intake manifold with carb cleaner, right behind the alternator. it is common spot to leak and cause this

check the coolant temp. sensor