Diane,
I have an '03 4Banger that came with factory air (Bought it while living in Florida). I used it rarely.......maybe 4-5 times in 3 years. You'll definitely notice a drop in power when you kick it on (less-so on the interstate, but DEFINITELY noticable). My air no longer works, and I was thinking of converting it to an "on-board air" system (airing up tires) until I moved to God-forsaken Southern Louisiana!!!!!
Top off, doors off, this heat down here will still kill ya'!!!!! Don't know what I'd do if there was some vent shootin' hot air on my feet!!!! (Bondo comes to mind!
) Good luck with your problem.....wish I could help more. Just thought I could advise you on the "power-sappage" of AC on a 4banger.
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The only terrorists I fear reside in Washington, DC.
'03 TJ - 31x10 Trailcutter M/T's, 9000# Winch, Hi-Lift Jack, TopFive roof rack, only vehicle I own, takes me everywhere