I have a 1991 RX7 convertible. When I run the air the car stalls. I've been told the "idle air control unit" is going bad. Is this true and if so, where can I find this unit without going to Mazda? Help!

 

It's the BAC valve, the Bypass Air Control valve. It adjusts the idle speed of the car to compensate for loads like turning on the AC.

Over time, the BAC will get gummed up with residue, and will stick and not work properly. Do a search - I'm sure there's tons of stuff around here on how to clean the BAC. Basically, you're just taking it off and cleaning it out with carb cleaner. Even for a novice, it's probably a 10-15 minute job with simple hand tools.

FYI, I've NEVER seen a bad BAC - don't let anyone (esp. the dealer) tell you that you need a new one. The only bad ones I've seen involved an engine fire .

Dale