Cruise Control Systems: Operation

When switch is placed in "ON" position and "SET" button is depressed, the speed sensor sends a signal to control unit. This informs control unit of vehicle speed. Vacuum pump increases vacuum to move diaphragm in vacuum regulator, which acts on the throttle lever to maintain preselected vehicle speed.

Speed sensor senses vehicle speed changes and sends a signal to control unit. Control unit sends signals to vacuum motor to reduce or increase vacuum to maintain preselected vehicle speed. Temporary acceleration, as for passing, does not require canceling cruise control. When accelerator is released, system will return to preselected speed.

When brake or clutch pedal is depressed, cruise control operation is interrupted and throttle returns to idle speed. At the same time the vacuum pump will be shut off electrically. Preselected vehicle speed can be obtained after depressing brake or clutch pedal by moving switch to "RESUME" position.

Cruise control will be deactivated and preselected speed erased from control unit memory, if vehicle speed drops below 23 MPH, cruise control is turned off or if ignition is turned off.