2002 Cruise control sparking sound under load
 

Howdy. Second post here since I posted in the wrong forum. I've searched all ranger & explorer forums, and I haven't been able to find anyone with the same issue. (I also posted this a couple other places if you see it anywhere else)



Some background: I bought a 2002 4.0 4x4 Ranger from an older fellow a few months ago, and I've been slowly clearing codes & making repairs. The truck is 100% now, but I've discovered a weird issue: when I'm using the cruise control and go uphill/under load, and noticeable arcing/sparking sound can be heard behind the dash in the direction of the fuse panel or the power distribution box . I considered speaker static, but it distinctly sounds like wiring sparking/popping. I can't hear it on flat ground, and the cruise control seems to otherwise work perfectly fine. The cruise brake pressure recall had been completed, but I went ahead and replaced it with the updated model switch anyways. All fuses look fine too. Short of ripping out the dash, I'm at a loss. I really don't want to use the cruise either until it's fixed.



Has anyone had a similar issue, or would anyone have any ideas of what I could be? I can give any additional info/videos if need be. Appreciate it.

Any ideas? I'd be happy to try and avoid going to the shop if possible...