Add cruise control/Aftermarket Cruise control

[Logan Robb]

Late in the evenings, I wonder about things I will probably never do as I am not that crazy. However, I know someone out there has tried it or wanted it bad enough they have done it. 

My 64 Fltwd did not leave the factory with cruise control, as much as I wish it would have. But I am wondering what it would take to ADD the factory cruise control nearly 60 years later? Are there a/m units that would work better? Have you tried it?

Let me know if this is even something that can be done!

-Logan

[Jason Edge]

Adding the original cruise units is not that hard... if you can find the parts.  As a parts seller I stay out of complete systems and have a growing back log of customers looking for it on my Wait List. 

Below is a shop manual illustration of the key components. One of the cool things that makes installation not that bad, is there are 3 dimples on the left inner fender for where to drill your holes for the Power Unit mounting brackets. Look along the edge of that inner fender and you will see those dimples. While I have a few parts of the system including the main power unit, for me the hardest part to keep on hand is the dash selector control, that accelerator linkage from power unit to dashpot on firewall, and that "keyed" speedometer cable from transmission to power unit.  I believe I have everything else but you need all parts to make the factory setup work.

As far as aftermarket setups, I don't have a clue.

[Logan Robb]

Jason, 

thanks for the explanation! It doesn’t seem as involved I guess as I thought it would be. 

Perhaps something to think about a little more realistically. 

-Logan

[Tom Bahner]

I was evaluating the same thing a while back as I was really missing cruise control on our long treks. While looking at different aftermarket cruise controls, I ran across a Rostra CC distributor at a local shop. The owner had a 63 Caddy previously and had installed one on it. Figured if he had already installed one on a Caddy, he wouldn't have to invent the wheel. He located the control switch in the ash tray because I didn't want to mess with the blinker arm or drill on the dash. Close the ash tray and its hidden out of sight. So far it works well and I'm happy with it. Makes a long cruise even more enjoyable. 

[Logan Robb]

Thanks for the response! Glad to see there is something out there that works 

-Logan

[3n49omug8n28i]

I added a rostra unit to my 64 as it did not come with a factory cruise control. One of my favorite things I've done to my car after restoring my climate control system and adding fuel injection. 

The one thing I suggest is that the firewall dashpot that prevents the throttle from slamming into it be in excellent working order. You can find them new online and they come in all shapes and sizes. Whenever you touch the brakes the throttle releases instantly causing the carburetor springs to slam the throttle to the firewall. The dashpot acts as a shock absorber that slows the throttle arm down a bit before it hits the firewall. 

[3n49omug8n28i]

You can see the unit located on the drivers side fender well 

[Logan Robb]

That’s a good tip! Thank you! Glad to see two people have used the rostra unit and have been pleased! 

I think a restoration of my Climate Control will be before the cruise. But I am glad to know cruise can be added after the fact! 

-Logan