alright this is the problem, awhile back when i was driving the 97 astro i turned on the ac and after awhile it just jerked and the engine cut off. Not very car savy but just trying to get a general idea of what might be the problem. When u turn it on now the engine jerks and you can hear a little squeek like if everything came to a halt and the engine turns off immediately. thx for the help in advance

sounds like a/c compressor is seizing up

seized for sure. just turn a/c off and engine will run.