96 Contour - idle fluctuates with a/c on...

[dghawk]

Help!! I have a 96 Contour - Zetec 4 cylinder. If I let the car idle, in gear (AT), with the a/c on, the idle fluctuates badly, almost stalling the engine. If I turn the a/c off, it quits. Don't see any vacuum leaks and no CEL. Any ideas?? Thanks in advance for your discussion. Sincerely, Dave.

[Car Pal]

the refrigerant could be low. the processor anticipates the compressor to come on and raises the idle. if it doesn't, it drops back down. check to see if the compressor is coming on and staying on. if it cycles on and off rapidly there is not enough freon'usually from a leak.

[dghawk]

Thanks, Car Pal!! That's exactly what it was!! I appreciate your help!! Sincerely, Dave.