Date:         Mon, 31 Oct 2005 19:49:16 -0800
Reply-To:     James V <tornadored@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         James V <tornadored@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Speaking of Cruise Control...
Comments: To: Mark Magee <markbmagee@EARTHLINK.NET>
In-Reply-To:  <000001c5de69$fd6a6d70$6401a8c0@IBM92F477862D4>
Content-type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"

On 10/31/05 2:25 PM, "Mark Magee" <markbmagee@EARTHLINK.NET> wrote:

> Mine quit on my 90 Carat recently. I would rather go aftermarket that trace
> down the issue, but I worry about how the aftermarket will mount in the
> steering column. How does the unit you used fit on the steering
> column/stalk.

Couldn't you wire up the cruise your to your existing stalk?  There should
only be a few wires to figure out.

An aftermarket stalk-type switch typically mounts to the steering column
shroud.  The problem I found with mine (Rostra / AudioVox), and I assume
most other universal switches, is that the stalk is a bit short for the
large Vanagon steering wheel.  So, while holding the wheel, it's a bit of
stretch to use the same hand to activate the cruise.  Not a big deal, but
not as ergonomic as the factory position.  An extensions could be fabricated
to push the stalk outward.

The other minor gripe is that the Vanagon steering column is flimsy, so a
switch mounted to it doesn't feel totally solid.  Again, no big deal.

Here's my install on my Westy.  (the stalk is mounted upside down because
it's a left-handed switch and, for various reasons, I preferred it on the
right):

http://three91.com/vanagon/lis/cruisecontrol/IMG_1482.JPG
http://three91.com/vanagon/lis/cruisecontrol/IMG_1483.JPG
http://three91.com/vanagon/lis/cruisecontrol/IMG_1484.JPG

Rostra/Audiovox has another more modern looking switch without the hokey
flexy rubber sleeve, but the positioning is not fully adjustable and it
switches off (out of "ready" mode) when the iginition is turned off and must
be turned back to "on" each time before using.  Whereas the switch I opted
for can remain in the "ready" position and operates similarly to the stock
Vanagon cruise (what I'm used to).  And I kinda like hokey flexy anyway.

Alternatively, there are also the surface-mounted rocker type control
switches that you can mount to the dash or other flat surface.

James V