Jeffery
did you ever find a solution? I also have a 1983 DJ5M and have a similar problem. Mine runs great except for this problem. sometime, when starting it take a few times to turn over as if fuel isn't getting to the engine. also, sometimes at stops it idles so low it stalls. as long as my foot is on the gas it runs great. my carb was just rebulit and that doesnt seem to be the problem. have you ever seen this link about the recall for a pinched fuel line?
Google This: AM GENERAL DJ5M Recalls, Defects
could this be it? if we both have this problem it could be a defect with the model.
thanks