1998 Dodge van cruise control

[markopolo]

The cruise control on my '98 Dodge van is not working.

It doesn't set right away. If I fiddle with it a bit (press on/off a few times and hold the button down for a while) it will set but the van's speed will slowly decrease so it is not usable.

Any ideas? Do I have to take it in to a mechanic?

[obiewan kanobe]

first, check any vacuum lines to the unit. some lines are plastic and may look like wires. check all connectors for corrosion ( pencil eraser and wd 40 to clean). fuses are probly ok since it starts. there is usually a vacuum chamber. newest models may go through computer, if equipped, but, don't think that is a problem.

on older dodge vans ( 1979 1986) i have found the vacuum lines or sometimes binding linkage/ cable to be problem. borrow a chiltons manual or look it up on the web, the parts are all accessable and easy to check.
don't give up too easy, it is usually something simple.

[markopolo]

Thank you - I do appreciate your help. I will tackle this soon.