I have a '97 F150 that has suddenly developed an electrical issue with the #5 fuse: Speed control, daytime running lamps, climate control blend door, backup lamps, A/C clutch coil. I've tried to narrow down where the issue might be, ie disconnecting components, but am getting nowhere. the 15 amp fuse blows almost immediately when I start the truck. Cruise is, of course, off, a/c disconnected at the clutch coil, no daytime running lights on the truck. I am at a total loss. any help here?

 

To help isolate...

Disconnect the speed control amplifier/servo, if equipped.
Turn HVAC mode switch to OFF.
Verify shift lever is NOT in reverse.
Disconnect the blend door actuator if you can reach it.

If the the short circuit still is present, you'll need to find the short somewhere in the harness, a tough job.

If the short is gone with everything disconnected, hook items back up, one at a time, to see which branch of the circuit has the short.

 

Appreciate the information, do you have a source for a wiring schematic? I've run into issues in the past with this truck finding the correct parts and information as it was actually built in May 1996, purchased it in June 96 (but is still considered a "97" model) I've found out it's more of a "hybrid" 96/97. It's the 4.2L, auto trans, extended cab, super long bed, XLT

 

I have the factory service manual on CD/DVD. They're readily available on ebay. I've also heard the AutoZone's website has some of the diagrams for this era vehicle but I've never dug into it.

Ford switched body styles between the 96 and 97 model year production. They switched one factory over first to the new style (MY 97) while the other factory continued producing 96 models. Once the new factory was up and running, they shut the other one down and switched it over to producing 97s.

 

Yes, they switched body styles, however early on they still shared some of the same components(97 body, 96 parts). I have come across a few parts that were for a 97 model, but would not work. Had to get them for a 96.