help help 1997 wagon turns off when as turns on

[r6dallastx]

I have a 1997 for escort wagon, and when ever I turn on the a/c the engine turns off. The engine will turn off at idle or driving down the road. I can see the compress turn and start to spin but a second later the engine turns off. I've tried to give it some gas as the compressor kicks on but she still turns off. I've checked all of the fuses under the hood and inside the car, but they are all good. The a/c was working fine a few days ago but now nothing. Everything else works perfect. the system has freon about 2lbs. I really need some help caues it's hot hot here in texas.

[GTP Dad]

The compressor may be going bad. It may be locked up and stalling the engine when it kicks in due to the compressor not turning. Take it to an AC service center to have it checked out. If it is bad you can probably find a good used compressor from a wrecking yard for about half what a new one would cost.

[r6dallastx]

well, i found a used compressor form a 1998 escort for 41.00 + tax, but i still not sure if it needs one. Is there any way i can test the compressor to find out if it is bad?

[GTP Dad]

Take the belt off and engage the clutch on the AC compressor. To do this simply apply voltage to the red contact on the compressor. Once you do this you should be able to turn the compressor with your hand or a socket on the nut. If the compressor is locked up it will not turn at all.
You can also check the entire thing by removing the serpentine belt and starting the engine. Engage the AC, if it does the same thing without the belt then it
is something other than the compressor. If it continues to run then the compressor is bad. (Don't run the engine very long as it will heat up quickly but it should only take 30 to 45 seconds to test. Good Luck!

[jeffescortlx]

It may also be the IAC valve. (idel air control valve)