Cruise Master & Custom Cruise III

The Cruise Master system, used on all 1980---82 models and 1983 Caballero and El Camino, and the Custom Cruise III system, used on 1983---87 models except 1983 Caballero and El Camino, allow the operator to maintain a constant vehicle speed without continually applying foot pressure on the accelerator pedal. Both systems use vacuum to control a servo unit which alters throttle position to maintain the selected speed, release valves and switches which allow the system to be easily disengaged, and dash or steering column switches to control the system. The primary differences between the systems are the manner in which the servo is controlled and the method of sensing vehicle speed.

Fig. 3 Transducer regulator. 1981---83 Cruise Master:

Fig. 4 Engage switch. 1981---83 Cruise Master:

1981---83 CRUISE MASTER
This system operates in a manner similar to the 1980 systems, however, a ``resume'' function has been added. The transducer, Fig. 3, has been modified by the addition of a resume solenoid, and the engagement switch assembly, Fig. 4, has been revised to include a slide-type on/off switch which also controls the resume function. The system has also been adapted for use on manual transmission models by the addition of clutch pedal operated disengagement controls.
When the slide switch is in the on position and vehicle speed is above 30 m.p.h., the system operates as follows: The system is engaged at the desired speed by fully depressing, then releasing the set/coast button. Vehicle cruise speed can be reduced by fully depressing the set/coast button, then releasing the button when desired speed has been reached. The system is disengaged by depressing the brake or clutch pedal, or by moving the slide switch to off position.
If the system is disengaged by depressing the brake or clutch pedal, the last set speed will be retained in the transducer memory until the slide switch or ignition switch is moved to off position. Moving the slide switch to the resume position energizes the transducer resume solenoid and causes the vehicle to accelerate to the last set speed. This set speed is then maintained until the system is disengaged or another speed is set.
The cruise system can be disengaged either by moving the slide switch to off, which de-energizes the system, or by depressing the clutch or brake pedal which opens release switches and valves as on earlier systems. The transducer speed sensor prevents system operation at speeds below approximately 30 m.p.h..