Cruise control button bit the dust

[konaboy]

So tonight I went to engage my cruise control and my thumb went through the pad for the on button. I've felt the plastic getting more brittle on it, well in the subzero temps today it bit the dust. I'm guessing I have to replace the entire wheel if I want to fix this or can it be done just replacing the cruise control switches?

 

[Wolfrom64]

You can just replace the switch. there is a write up on the site.
I just did mine today.

1 - Disconnect the battery wait 10 to 15 mins.
2 - Pry out two plugs covering driver side air bag module screws on sides of steering wheel.
3.Remove two driver side air bag module retaining screws on side of steering wheel from driver side air bag module, and lift module away from steering wheel.
4 - The air bag should be loose now, and you can lift it out, just rest it up on top of the steering column. No need to disconnect the wires.
5 - with a Phillips screwdriver, remove the switches
6 - disconnect the wiring from the switches - the ribbon/clip will pull away from the cruise buttons, don't be afraid, just use a pair of needle nose pliers to gently pull the ribbon/clip off the buttons. be careful not to pull the ribbon, pull on the connector
7 - put in the new buttons - just push the ribbon/clip wiring on
8 - screw them back in place
9 - put the air bag back in and secure with the small screws on each side
10 - replace the plastic covers over the holes on each side of the wheel.

 

[konaboy]

You can just replace the switch. there is a write up on the site.
I just did mine today.

Awesome, where did you find the write up here?

 

[Wolfrom64]

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=229245

Try this one.

 

[JCat]

The cheap Ebay ones do not last. Get OEM if you can.

 

[Markaprice73]

Motorcraft SW5919 Cruise Control Switch $90.60+free shipping at the moment.
http://www.amazon.com/Motorcraft-SW5919-Cruise-Control-Switch/dp/B000C5BYHG/ref=au_pf_ss_1?ie=UTF8&Make=Ford|54&Model=Explorer|663&Year=1997|1997&carId=001&n=15684181&s=automotive

 

[pbnj22]

gosh that is expensive...
are you just the hulk or very intent on pressing the cruise!?

 

[Markaprice73]

Yep, pretty pricey. I "watched" my wish list almost everyday for months.(for my'03 ST/different switch/same pricing) Finally, went down to $70. I just purchased a '02 sport for my daughter. Her cruise control pad is broken/crumbled (known issue with these things) as well. She complained about the green light shining in her face at night. I just reached in their and un-twisted the bulb. Problem solved Maybe for a B-Day gift at a later date.

 

[konaboy]

gosh that is expensive...
are you just the hulk or very intent on pressing the cruise!?

Nope just old plastic and rubber that becomes brittle from age and heat and cold.