For some reason I keep blowing the 15 amp fuse which handles the "brake on/off
switch, rear anti-lock brake module and brake pressure switch". It also kills my
rear brake lights, although not running lights... This is on a 1997 F150 XLT.
About a week before this occurred, my gearshift would not disengage from
park after starting the truck. I could pull the shift lever before turning the key
and then I could get it out of park. Related? Anyone ever had this happen?
All else runs fine and stops fine...

Thanks

 

I would assume you have a short somewhere in the circuit, if you have a a multimeter and a diagram you might be able to hunt it down, if not, sounds like take it to the dealer and pay them $75 an hour to hunt it down.

 

This is the classic Cruise Control Shutoff Switch (on the master cyinder) leaking and causing a short. This problem has been known to cause fires. Please take it to a dealer to fix as there is a massive recall for this problem. I should cost you nothing.

There are may posts about this, you can search if you like.

 

Ditto. In the mean time, unplug the switch on the front of the master cylinder, then replace the fuse and drive it to a dealership. Your cruise will not work, but the truck won't spontaneously combust either.

 

Problem now solved. It was the brake fluid sensor. Somehow leaked and got
fluid on the connection. Replaced sensor, cleaned and dried connectors, and
everything good to go... Also fixed the problem of not going into gear.

Thanks for the helpful advise..

 

I am glad you fixed this but still take it to the dealer for the recall. They will install an inline fuse so if the switch ever leaks again, the fuse will blow and not cause a fire. The line to the switch is hot all the time, even with the key off.

Again this will cost you nothing and you will be alot safer for it.

 

Next time, follow advice.

This would have been a free repair if you'd just taken it in....

Steve

 

Dealer had already serviced recall prior to this and fixed potential fire problem.