I have a mechanical thermostat, when you set it at the temp you want say 70 degrees, it will not kick the a/c at that temp, you have to manually move the temp setting to about 85 degrees. The cooling works fine it just will not kick off. I have cleaned the thermostat what should I try next?

If this thermostat has a mercury bulb in it, then you might try to level it (they have to be level)