You list a '98 but posted in a 2002-05 subforum, which is it?
I can't state with 100% certainty that a 3rd gen '02-05 behaves the same way, but on 2nd gen, the switch doesn't measure fluid level but rather pressure when the brake pedal is pushed, it is a simple pressure switch on the master cylinder that opens and closes the circuit depending on whether the brake pedal is pushed. It's closed circuit (should read low resistance across the switch contacts with a multimeter) when the brake pedal is not pushed, and open circuit when it is.
In that case, you could jumper across the contacts in the connector to it, to trick the cruise control module into thinking you have a working pressure switch and the brake pedal is not pressed, which should allow the cruise control to work if the only problem was that switch.
I would not drive it like that, beyond a test period, because if left like that, time goes by, driver doesn't know or remember and sets cruise control, then it doesn't shut off when it should, when the brake pedal is pushed - I could be wrong about this, since the cruise control has two inputs, also the switch on the brake pedal itself and the diagram does not make it clear whether the redundant signal is necessary.
What's the part # for the switch? If $150 is the motorcraft part price, possibly aftermarket is cheaper?
Suppose you have an '03, then I found these:
Electrical-Switch & Relay Parts and More for Your 2003 FORD EXPLORER at Reliably Low Prices. Fast Online Catalog. DIY-Easy. Your Choice of Quality. Full Manufacturer Warranty.
www.rockauto.com
You can search Rock Auto's other listings per vehicle for a "cruise control release switch" to find more.
