Stumbles then Surges

[tojosa]

Hi folks! I have a 2002 Dodge Caravan with the 4 cylinder engine. When I come to a stop, and the engine is coming to idle just before dead stop, the engine runs rough, I call it stumbling then surges and returns to normal idle speed. It hasn't died yet but comes close. The effect is worse when under load-when I turn on the lights and AC. I had it to the dealer and they wan't $700 for a new AC compressor!!? It throws no codes. The only thing I can think of with the compressor is if the bearings in the pulley are loading the engine down cause it happens when I have the AC on or off. Only worse when its on. Also I can't be sure yet because I havent measured it but I think my mileage has gone to h--l too. Can anyone help???

[neon_rt]

Sounds like a vacuum leak.
That would explain low mileage and idle trouble.
I don't think it would be the A/C, they usually lock up completely when they go bad (mine did).

[caravandrvr]

Yup, sounds like it could be a classic vacuum leak. That's the first thing I'd check too - and it won't cost you anything to open your hood and give a listen for it....

[tojosa]

Checked all vaccuum lines... no leaks. Any other ideas?

[caravandrvr]

Originally Posted by tojosa

Checked all vaccuum lines... no leaks. Any other ideas?

Try the test outlined in these threads regarding alternator:

http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbul...d.php?t=398005

http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbul...d.php?t=419359