cruise control button cracked

[crunchie_frog]

The left cruise control button cracked so I went to the junkyard for replacement. Currently, the local pull a part has ~ 20+ 2nd gen explorers and not so many rangers. Everyone of them had the switch either broken, mangled or removed. I am thinking I am probably going to be better off just ordering a new set of switches, they are about $80 it seems. I was just wondering if anyone had good experiences with finding a usable junkyard switch and then having it last any length of time after installation.

 

[koda2000]

it's very hard to find good used ones. they're always cracked. buy new or check ebay (example below)

http://www.ebay.com/itm/95-03-Ford-...Parts_Accessories&hash=item1e8ec5f921&vxp=mtr

BTW: changing the switch (specially getting it to unplug from its wiring) is a joy unless you know the trick.

 

[chefduane]

I changed out mine on my '98. It wasn't really that difficult to do but you do have to remove the airbag module to get to the connectors. The airbag can remain wired and will move out of the way and be placed on top of the steering column when doing the cc wiring. Just be VERY careful and meticulous and gentle when messing with anything to do with the airbag. IIRC there is a procedure on the site somewhere.

 

[koda2000]

I changed out mine on my '98. It wasn't really that difficult to do but you do have to remove the airbag module to get to the connectors. The airbag can remain wired and will move out of the way and be placed on top of the steering column when doing the cc wiring. Just be VERY careful and meticulous and gentle when messing with anything to do with the airbag. IIRC there is a procedure on the site somewhere.

you really should disconnect the battery and turn on the headlights to drain any residual power from the system when messing with the air bags. the trick to disconnecting the wires from the old switch is that the bottom of the plug gets hung up on the switch housing. to get it to release i used a .020 feeler gauge under the plug.

 

[chefduane]

you really should disconnect the battery and turn on the headlights to drain any residual power from the system when messing with the air bags. the trick to disconnecting the wires from the old switch is that the bottom of the plug gets hung up on the switch housing. to get it to release i used a .020 feeler gauge under the plug.

Yes, I can't remember exactly if I did that or not. Probably should have if I didn't. If I didn't, I got away with it. Good advice nonetheless.

 

[crunchie_frog]

Thanks, ordered new set of switches from Amazon.

 

[toypaseo]

Most switches I find in the junkyard are hard as a rock, and I can't even tell if they do anything when pressed. Others are worn or broken. I have lucked out though, and found a few that were soft, and in mint condition.

 

[blakshukvw]

I found a few in a PNP near me. I removed just the rubber covers and installed them on my existing switches in about 20 minutes.