In a message dated 97-05-13 03:30:59 EDT, Erlaz@aol.com writes:

<<  When the AC is turned on the
 van wants to die and becomes sluggish.  We know the engine is miniscule for
 the size of the car, but it should not drain the power that badly.  Any
ideas
 and suggestions appreciated as always.  P.S.- Althea has an automatic
 transmission.  Thanks again, Dan & Christine
  >>

A/C + Automatic = road slug....

There was a thread on this last summer about compressors that shut off when
you pass or accelerate hard ( up hills).  check the archives on it.

chris