Hoping someone can give me direction!! I'm not near my normal mechanic (1500 mi away!) and the 2005 Ford F-150 if left idling for a short time (5min) or in stop and go traffic will give me a "reduced engine power" code and, either just before it comes or after, the ac will stop blowing cold air. There has not been a check engine lmesaage nor does the temperature gauge indicate overheating...

Only suggestion I have had is that it could be the need for new spark plugs (am being told that I need to stick with same plugs as came with truck) no possibly new wires ... and the need for freon! But everyone who mentions spark plugs tell me that they are "tricky" and one mechanic has said that if they break sometimes they can't be removed and I would need a new engine. (Not a good option). I have been told to NOT go to dealership for repairs due to high cost and "finding new problems"

anybody have similar experience or suggestion?

vehicle was purchased used - has 246000 miles

 

Your fan clutch could be bad which is causing the engine temperature to rise. This will cause the ECM to reduce engine power, plus it will prevent the AC compressor from turning on.