Does the clutch switch serve any purpose aside from cruise control?
 

Does the clutch switch (on clutch pedal bracket) do anything that doesn't have to do with the cruise control? If it doesn't, and I am removing the cruise control am I safe to remove the switch and replace it with a rubber bumper so the pedal arm has something to rest against?

thanks,
James

The clutch switch is used to enable the starter.

I'm not sure why, but it does have an effect on idle. After fixing a faulty switch on a friends car, his idle problem disappeared. I suggest that you repair/replace it, and reinstall.

That is the other clutch switch, not the cruise control clutch switch. There are two of them.

Didn't know that, thanks for the correction.

Thanks Adam

ah, i was not aware there were two clutch switches... that explains why i have to push the clutch in to start the car, but the cruise control shoots the RPMs up if i push the clutch in with the cruise control engaged...

Yep you probably have to do the same thing I just did. It's very easy to fix, check this other thread:

https://www.rx7club.com/3rd-generation-specific-1993-2002-16/clutch-switch-question-how-far-should-plunger-stick-out-644925/

The Clutch Switch connects not only to the cruise control, but also to terminal 1Q of the PCME. Depressing the clutch grounds that terminal by closing the switch. This tells the ECU (on the Miata) or PCME (on the RX-7) that it is to control the idle to its preset rpm when the Throttle Position Sensor is in its Idle position. On the Miata, the Clutch Switch is in parallel with the Neutral Switch, so that either being in neutral or having the clutch depressed with foot off the accelerator pedal has the same effect. The Neutral Switch on the RX-7 goes to terminal 1R of the PCME; I'm guessing that 1R and 1Q are tied together internal to the PCME, but I don't know for sure.

Good info, thanks.