Hi all, My 1997 Ram Van 2500 has an intermittent cruise control problem, won't turn on about half the time when I hit the on/off switch. I pretty sure that the problem is in the air bag clockspring. (In case someone isn't familiar with that, its what allows current to get from the steering column to the steering wheel stuff with the steering wheel being able to turn)
Anyhow, I've tried 3 internet parts houses with no luck. Lots of clock springs for other Dodges, but not the full size van, Does anyone have access to the factory part number for it? Or, a definite source? It's a 3.9 engine, steering wheel has cruise and no radio controls. Thanks for any info, Tracka96

 

Why don't you try the local junkyard? They're bound to have the part(s) you are looking for. You can even practice steering wheel disassembly and reassembly out in their yard on a junked van so you don't make mistakes on your van's clockspring.

 

Oh - How I wish we had a local junkyard. Closest one is about 60 miles away in the big city where I try to never go. Got a reply back from a Dodge dealer today about the part. They said "this part is no longer serviced" Turns out I may not need it anyhow, after unplugging the connectors and plugging them back in on both ends of the clockspring, cruise control seems to be OK, I'll keep trying it and see what happens. Tracka96

 

Gotcha. I guess I'm lucky because I do have a local junkyard and it is well stocked with 1990's Ram vans. There's a $2 entrance fee to the yard and the parts are dirt cheap. Gives me an excuse to take a few hours off during the week and smoke a cigarette or two while I scrounge up what I need.



If any stupid little thing breaks on mine I can usually find it at the junkie for just a couple of bucks. Helps me keep my 2500 tip-top and completely kills excuses for not fixing even the smallest BS problem.

Good news about your connectors; hope that's a permanent fix - especially where your SRS Airbag is concerned!

 

In that case, it's working perfectly.

 

Arrrrrrgh!