Ok I have a 97 F-150 4x4 4.6 and the cruise control is not working right. Sometime it will engage and some times it won't. When it does engage it disengages whenever it feels like usually within 30seconds or so. If anyone knows what might be wrong let me know.

 

today I was driving around and it would not work for me at all. any ideas?

 

Did you have your cruise recall performed?

Have you inspected the switch on the master cylinder for leakage inside the switch's connector?

If the answers are "No" and "No", IMMEDIATELY go out and inspect it. If there is fluid in the connector, leave it unplugged and call your on Monday for an appointment.

If the recall has been performed, go out and inspect for fluid anyway. If found, you will need to replace both the switch and fuse harness - about $20 to purchase the "other" recall kit.

Steve

 

Yes I inspected the switch and I have had the recall performed and I checked all of the fuses and relays

 

Now check the electrical integrity of the switch and the recall harness. Should be continuity.

Steve

 

I know this may sound like a stuipid question but... Are you going at least 25 mph when you engage it?

 

Yes I am going over 35 mph

 

everything seems fine

 

What does that mean? Did you test it with a meter and confirm continuity? Or, perhaps, just do a visual?

Quickest way to either exclude the switch and harness is to use a paper clip, insert it into the harness where the recall jumper plugs in, secure it, and take a short test drive. If the system works, you know you have a switch or fuse link problem.

If it doesn't make a difference, you'll have to follow the troubleshooting chart in the service manual to pinpoint the fault.

Steve

 

just a visual...where exactly should I put the paper clip at, do you mean between the switch and the plug but just on the plug. I don't quite understand

 

It is impossible to verify circuit continuity with a visual unless you have been endowed with special visual talents.

Unplug the recall harness from the vehicle harness.

Straighten a paper clip.

Insert into the connector pins of the vehicle side of the harness.

Secure and insulate.

Short test drive to see if cruise now works reliably.

If it does, the pressure switch is likely starting to fail internally (electrically, not due to leaking). Replace the switch.

 

I tried the paper clip thing and the cruise control still didn't work.

 

Then you'll have to refer to the service manual or take it to a qualified shop.

Good luck.