This one has really got me stumped. I recently bought a 97 Golf. I decided to change the spark plugs and wires because the old ones were worn down to the point where the car would struggle in acceleration. Now the car is amazing except for when idling. With the AC off the rpm's stay farely steady fluctuating just enough to notice while in the car without looking at the tachometer. But when i turn the AC off it goes nuts and goes back and forth between 500 and 1000 rmp. After doing this for a few seconds it stalls. When I unplug the mass airflow sensor it does better in that it wont stall but is still very jerky at idle untill I turn off the AC. What can i do!

 

not use the AC.. otherwise may be a surge from some where, how's the AC pump run?

 

check all vacume hosses !!!!! also check alternator and battry condition. change the air filter adjust timming make sure plug wires are connected properly and in correct order. change fuel filter and p.c.v. valve.