I just bought a 1990 Dodge W250 diesel 3 speed auto. I would like to add cruise control and was wondering if this pickup has VSS or will I need to add speed sensor? Any experience with aftermarket cruise control I should be aware of?<br><br>Also, none of the 4 warning lights (water in fuel, wait to start, etc.) work. I don't know if they are related to those warning lights, but the windshield washer, dome light, map light, and cargo light also do not work. I checked and all fuses seem to be ok. The truck is about 80 miles away right now getting some tranny work done so I can't work on it right now but would like any advice for when I get it back.<br><br>Thanks, Steve

 

AFAIK there is no way to run cruise thru a OEM setup. Gas trucks in 89-90 still used the old vac. operated cruise system, and that doesn't work too well for a diesel. No idea on good aftermarket setups

 

I have the same set up, cruise would be a waste of money for the freeway. Anything greater than 70 and you have to hold it anyway, above 75 and the cruise would probably labor on any incline. I'd like to get an O.D. unit later myself, then would look into a cruise. Sounds like you might have to get parts from a junked vehicle if it was an option for 89-90.

 

I have cruise and like it. It is an add on and I know nothing about it. The VE pump is slow to react so mph will very some. I only drive about 65 because I want to get some mpg. Remember the early first gens have high pedle effort and cruise can be nice to have.<br><br>Paul

 

Seems like I'm not getting as good of milage at slower speeds like last summer. I've been wondering if the stations have gone to summer fuel here yet. I get my best milage at around 65-70 it seems. I also wonder if running cooler at low speeds with the bigger radiator is hurting mileage. The higher rpms may be creating the heat needed for good mileage. Far fetched? When I'm on schedule, I take old 131 to work (scenic route). A few hills, turns and villages to prevent the need for cruise. When I'm running behind, I take the freeway, 75-80 W.O.T. No cruise needed for that. I commute about 45 min each way, so I am able to monitor performance fairly well. I do plan on adding an overdrive in the future to assist with mileage, and save some ware and tare from higher rpm's. Then a cruise will be nice to have.

 

Also, if you guys with the 3 spd are interested, I turned the fuel screw in a couple turns past the lock collar. I still top out about the same, but getting there is nicer. I can accelerate right to 80 now WITH a grade. Passing at higher speeds is nicer now too. Still trying to find time for the gov spring upgrade as well. Hopefully there will be some P.O.D.'s on sale at Muncie