Description & Operation

NOTE: This article applies only to 4-door Explorer and Mountaineer models. For Explorer Sport and Explorer Sport Trac testing procedures, see CRUISE CONTROL SYSTEMS - EXPLORER SPORT & EXPLORER SPORT TRAC article.

Major components of the cruise control system are speed control switches, servo/actuator, actuator cable, indicator light, Brake Pedal Position (BPP) switch, Clutch Pedal Position (CPP) switch, deactivator switch, anti-lock brake control module and related wiring. This system does not require engine vacuum. An electronic servo/actuator actuates the throttle. All electronic control components are contained within the speed control servo/actuator. The air bag sliding contact is used for electrical interface between steering wheel cruise control switches in steering wheel and steering column.

Speed control servo receives inputs from vehicle speed signal, cruise control actuator switches, and BPP, CPP and deactivator switches. Speed control servo ouputs to speed control indicator and speed control actuator cable controlling throttle position.

Cruise control system is operational only at speeds greater than 30 MPH. The system is activated when ON/OFF switch is switched on and SET/ACCEL button is pressed and released. Vehicle will maintain set speed until new speed is set, brake pedal is pressed, clutch pedal is pressed, or ON/OFF switch is switched off. If system has been deactivated by pressing brake or clutch pedal, set speed can be regained by pressing and releasing RESUME button. When brake or clutch pedal is pressed, a signal from switch is sent to the servo to deactivate the system. A deactivator switch acts as an additional safety feature, which is activated under increased brake pedal effort, removing power from servo clutch.