Miata Mailing List: May 1999, Message #9

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LX935OH@aol.com wrote:
> 
> Maybe I am spoiled by previously driving a V8 before getting my Miata.  But,
> recently I have found it necessary to drive with the front defrost running
> with the a/c button pushed in to activate the compressor.  With the odd
> weather spell we have had recently in GA, the humidity completely fogs up my
> windows.  As I am driving with the defroster in action, the turning on and
> off of the a/c compressor is extremely noticeable and causes a very choppy,
> uneven drive.  Basically, when the compressor cuts on, my car kangaroos
> forward as if I have tapped the brakes.  Then, when it cuts off, the car
> springs forward as if suddenly gassed.  The whole aspect is rather
> disconcerting as it seems to degrade the ride quality substantially.  Is this
> a common occurrence in the Miata (I have a '91)?  I know 4 cylinder engines
> are susceptible to power robbing accessories more than 8 cylinder engines.
> But, what I am experiencing does not seem "normal".  As I push in the clutch
> to change gears, the car reacts like it is being driven by a Sears Driving
> School freshman student.  It feels like it bucks more than it should.  Am I
> being overly picky?  Or, does something seem out of line?         TIA
> Sorry for the length of this post.

Yep, Jay.  My car definitely feels it when the compressor kicks in and
out also, but maybe not quite as obviously as you report.  Just
symptomatic of a small engine, I guess.  I do drive in the summer with
the A/C on sometimes, but I really hate to do it in traffic, where
it's particularly noticeable.  On the road at speed, it isn't really a
problem.

--
Bill Gusky and Petunia
Red '91, license "MOMENTS"
http://www.totcon.com/users/moments
DeLand, Florida
"Too soon oldt, und too late schmart!"