My 99 cougar has a power surge. Lights are the

did you hook up batter cable? lights work?

the surging and whistling sounds like there might be a vacuum leak that is causing this.recheck all vacuum lines and surfaces were this is a gasket that seals a vacuum source.smooth running and good power off idle suggest this leak only affects the motor at a low(idle)rpm.

Sounds like a fuel problem. The electronics shutting down are the result of the dying power. Start by changing the fuel filter. If that doesn't work; I'd look into the fuel pump.

Go to this site.
http://Cougarfix.yolasite.com

It could be the MAF (mass air flow) sensor. Once the engine warms up it starts to use all of the sensors to operate the engine. Try unplugging the sensor to see if that restores some of your lost power.

alternator or bad belt or idler pulley..

Same thing with my sister's 99 cougar. Her alternator is brand new and when it was replaced he had a hard time with the alternator cable so I'm thinking it is a loose wire to the alternator causing this to happen. It's either that or the brand new re-furb AutoZone junk alternator which I have had issues with in the past on another car. Check your main alternator wire and also check your battery posts for corrosion.

sounds like idle control valve or throttle position sensor. It could also be the engine ecu is faulty but the other 2 issues should be looked at first as they are less expensive to address if you are going through a process of elimination. I would suggest taking it in to have it properly diagnosed by a competent mechanic. try rovercannibal.com for parts when/if you need.

did you check the relay? it would be in something that looks like another fusebox under the hood, in the engine compartment. if its not a bulb, fuse or relay, then it is a wiring problem.