Cruise Control: Description and Operation

The cruise control system is made up of mechanical, electrical and vacuum operated units. Together, these units maintain vehicle speeds, set by the driver. The control unit receives command signals from control main switch and control set/resume/cancel switch, giving information about operating conditions from brake switch, distributor, speed pulser, clutch switch or shift position switch. All of this information is used to regulate throttle position. The throttle position maintains selected vehicle speed, comparing actual speed of vehicle to selected speed.
When the brake switch is turned on, by depressing brake pedal, a signal is sent to control unit which in turn allows the throttle to close. The clutch switch, cancel switch or shift position switch sends a signal that allows throttle to close.
When cruise control is set, it will take over vehicle speed above 30 mph. A warning light on dash will light. After setting desired speed or pressing resume switch until the desired speed is obtained, turn main switch on. The desired speed will remain in memory until main switch is turned off. Pressing resume switch after slowing down will automatically allow cruise control to once again take over vehicle speed.