2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Cruise switches quit working

[azpete]

Last week I noticed the cruise light in the dash was on. I hit the off button but could not shut it off. None of the other buttons worked either. The cruise was not engaged, just could not turn the light off.



Yesterday after changing out the fuel pressure gauge and starting the truck the cruise light was off. Went for a ride but none off the cruise buttons would work. Any ideas on where to start looking?

 

[jtisdale]

Does the horn work? If not, I might lean towards the clock spring.

 

[azpete]

Just checked. The horn works.

 

[FYarcho]

I too would start with the clock spring. From what you describe sounds like its not getting a good connection there. Could try to push the button and turn the steering wheel at the same time and see if it comes on or goes off.

 

[Thomas]

Safety Recall #982 - Clockspring: http://dodgeram. info/tsb/recalls/982.htm

 

[azpete]

Thanks for the link to the recall on the clock spring. Will check with the local dealer this week. I have had a problem with the cruise since new. Would go peddle to the metal at times even with the cruise but still on running at 25mph in bumper to bumper traffic a few times I've had it go full throttle for no reason. Kind of scary.

 

[azpete]

It has been raining all morning here and decided to stop by the dealer to check on the clock spring recall. Of course just like usual when she knows she is going to the doctor the cruise starts working again. The sevice writer checked the vin and mine is not included in the recall. Guess I am on my own now. Will see how long it keeps working now.

 

[WestTN]

If you have the RAZ radio, do all the steering wheel switches work normally? They also use the 'clockspring' wiring.

 

[The patriot]

Mine started acting up on my 98 a few weeks ago.

I got out some contact cleaner and some rags. Sprayed the living hell out of the switches and it works fine now.

 

[azpete]

With all the dust over the years out here and now all this humidity I was thinking the same thing, dirty contacts. But all four switches quit working at the same time. Now that everything is working again I will have to wait till something happens again.

 

[The patriot]

If the on/off switch is not working, the rest will do nothing.

I thought my cruise system was messed up until I used the contact cleaner because it happened about the same time I put in 2 new batteries.