Mod (Ret.)

If the strobe lights are installed in the brake light circuits, temporarily remove or open a wire to them, and see if the cruise works. If so, and you still want them to work (strobe lights), you may need to install load resisters. Search this site for "load resistors" and you'll find info on them for turn signal and LED requirements; I'm assuming the strobe lights are similar.

tcruz0004

Bucko, I going to be doing a 5 day trip in a couple weeks - moving to Washington state - so I really want to get this cruise control working.

Do you know, if I indeed have a problem with the lighting system, will I be able to turn on the Cruise Control and just not set it? Or will it not be able to be activated at all? I'm trying to eliminate potential causes so I can narrow down the best component to repair or replace first.

BadFish523

LEDs in the tail lights are the cheapest easiest place to start with the cruse problem. Do as Bucko said. Remove the strobe light from the brake light circuit and try it. Also check if they have LEDs in the tail lights or just incandescent bulbs.

tcruz0004

Today I removed the third brake light housing and saw that the three bulbs were all incandescent. The strobe lights appeared to be CFL - they had the spiral type shape to them. But they are independent of the brake circuitry. They are controlled by an aftermarket on/off switch near the steering wheel. All brake lights appeared to be incandescent.

I got a reply from FordTechMakuloco on this video and I believe it's the blue switch near the top of the brake pedal:
Anyone else changed out that part with success? I'm planning on stopping by a junkyard this week to get a cheap one and see if that works. I'll keep everyone posted.