DIY Network

Installing Cruise Control, Turn-Signal Display Rearview Mirrors and Seat Covers A group of small projects helps beef up a Jeep's comfort and "drive appeal" before a long road-trip. From "Weekend Mechanic" episode WKM-410

In this project, Weekend Mechanic host Bruce Bonebrake prepares a 1998 Jeep Wrangler for travel with several projects including the installation of a cruise-control system and new dual-display side mirrors with built-in LED turn signal lights. To make the Jeep more comfortable for a long trip, he also transforms the worn and dirty interior with new carpeting and neoprene seat covers.

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On this Jeep, the cruise-control unit gets mounted to the rear firewall.

Project Overview

Many vehicles today, except for some Jeeps and SUV's, come with factory-installed cruise control. Our project vehicle is a Jeep, and the owners didn't purchase the cruise control option. But they're planning a long trip, and now think the feature would be handy for the long drives. Fortunately, aftermarket cruise controls are available for practically any vehicle and they're relatively easy to install.

We begin the project of installing the cruise control system, starting with the work under the hood. He then moves on to finish the installation with the wiring and interior components. Next we install the after-market dual-display side mirrors with LED turn signal indicators. Finally we improves the interior of the Jeep with new carpeting and neoprene seat covers.

DIY Difficulty Rating for the Project: We gave this job a difficulty rating of 2 on a 5-point intermediate-level scale. The most complex project, installing the cruise control system, involves some drilling and soldering, but should only take a couple of hours.

Important: Included here is a basic summary of the steps in this automotive procedure as shown in the episode. These steps are general guidelines that are applicable to most vehicles. With any particular vehicle, there may be procedures, specifications, settings, tolerances, components, etc. that are specific to that vehicle. There are also variations according to the type and brand of repair-kit or replacement parts you select. Always consult your vehicle's service manual when undertaking significant automotive repairs, and read and follow the manufacturer's directions and precautions that come with your kit or replacement parts.

Wiring for the cruise control system

Tools and materials:

In addition to standard auto-mechanic's tools (wrenches, ratchets, extenders, screwdrivers, nut-drivers, torque wrench, etc.), some of the tools required for this project include:

cruise-control system kit
drill and drill-bits
soldering gun
electrical supplies

Be sure to get a cruise control system that is compatible with your vehicle.

Safety Alert: As a standard safety precaution, always disconnect the vehicle's negative battery cable before you begin work on any electrical or mechanical components. When working on an air bag equipped vehicle, always disconnect the battery to avoid deploying the airbags.

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