Hi, I'm a newbie in learning mode here. Awesome site!
I have a '98 Contour ES with the 2.0 Zetec and when the air conditioner is on and the car is idling everything sounds great. However, when driving down the highway at 55-60 mph, I can feel a real noticeable decrease in power that only lasts for 5 to 10 seconds, then it goes back to normal for 5 to 10 seconds, then I feel it again. This happens non-stop. When I shut off the A/C, the car drives smoothly again. When the car is stopped with the motor running and the A/C on and I rev it to about 2,000 rpms (I'm guessing-no tach), I can hear just what I'm feeling on the highway. Compressor cycles on for 5,6, or 7 seconds, off for 5,6, or 7 seconds, on, off, on, off, etc. repeatedly.
Is this normal? I realize the decrease in power is from the compressor cycling on, but it seems a little excessive, and way too frequent. Not only is it somewhat annoying while driving on the highway, but I'm worried about burning out my compressor, or something. Anyone have any ideas?
