Though I have a Chilton's manual for my 95 XLT, the details about the cruise control cable isn't defined real good. Of course, my CC doesn't work but the horn does. Looking at the lower cable going from the accelerator pedal to the AT, I noticed it sits about 3/4 - 1 inch out from the pedal mount before the spring would contact it. IF I interupt the manual right, it should be in constant contact with a 'slight pressure'. BEFORE I take the arm off the tranny and attempt to adjust it's position, AM I ON THE RIGHT TRACK? Or am I courting disaster?


Bruce Smith
kasava@gci-net.com

 

Bruce,
You've got some confusing information in your posting. If you can clarify, perhaps I can help. I have the Ford Service manuals.
Your posting title suggests that you are having a cruise control problem. But, the posting talks about the cable from the accel pedal to the transmission. This is the "kick down cable" which forces the trans to downshift under full pedal depression.
What problem are you trying to solve?
If the cruise control doesn't work, its got nothing to do with the kick down cable adjustment. Besides, this is not adjustable. The manual says
"The kick down cable for the automatic transmission is self adjusting. The cable self adjusts to the proper length after installation by depressing the accelerator pedal to the floor."
If the van downshifts when you press the pedal to the floor for passing, this cable is OK. The manual says the kick down cable is not serviceable/repairable... you simply replace the whole thing if its bad.
The cruise control system manipulates the throttle body, which is where the other accel pedal cable goes... and varies the air flow to the engine.
Clarify what you need, and we'll see if we can help.
KenP

 

I have only recently bought my 95 XLT and the crusie control does not work. I've been following the various discussions on the CC here and the horn and brake lights work just fine. My Chilton's manual(pg 6-12) talks about an actuator cable and the photo appears to be the tranny.
Does the service manual have any diagnostics that would help?

TIA,
Bruce

P.S. Kickdown works A-OK!

 

In response to your original question about the lower cable at the accelerator pedal, yes, it is normal for it to extend approx. 1" beyond the pedal proper. I checked my own over the weekend and it does extend out this amount.

 

Yes, there are diagnostics for the cruise control system in the manual... about 30 pages worth...!!
If the system is completely inop, the manual says to check:
1.Blown Fuse
2.Circuitry
3. Stoplight switch
4. Burnt stoplamp bulb
5. Speed control actuator switch
6. Speed control servo
7. Programmable electronic speedometer/odometer module
The rest of chapter takes you through all the pin outs, etc.
Some of this you can easily check yourself... some is really tough unless you're pretty familiar with schematics and a multimeter.
You could spend a lot of time looking for this unless its obvious like a fuse.
I'd also check where the cruise control cable end meets the throttle body... I had one break free on my Taurus once.. i.e. a mechanical failure.
Unless you're pretty familiar with electrical systems, I'd let the pros find it for you.
KenP