Thanks for the info. on the clockspring, I never would have known what one is or does.

Turns out my problem is a broken/cracked stalk. The stalk flexes if you grab the end of it but it does not engage the cruise unless you grab close to the base of the stalk. Trust me, if you tried it, that would make sense. I tried out my friends switch in his '00 and it had a positive engagement when you pressed down.

It was dark so I couldnt see if it was cracked or not but I'll have to look into a used switch/stalk to replace. For now, cruise works, you just have to know how to handle it.

 

You're welcome. It's good to share what you've learned in hopes of saving someone else a headache. Glad you figured it out. Try the classifieds here. Parts are way cheaper than the stealership, or the junkyards around here.