Description:
The Caterpillar SoftCruise speed control feature provides a small “soft” window centered around the cruise set speed. With SoftCruise “On”, the ECM will modulate fuel delivery for a more efficient, smoother cruise control. SoftCruise reduces the abrupt on/off fuel cycling that is common with some diesel engine cruise controls. It allows the truck to increase speed slightly above the cruise set speed while going down hill (no-load) to “warm up” the turbocharger. This provides quick boost and improved engine response on the next hill.
Available:
All electronically controlled on-highway engines covered in this handbook
Range:
Advantages:
SoftCruise speed control can provide a smoother ride and improved fuel economy. The SoftCruise feature is most beneficial in rolling terrain.
Disadvantages:
Like Soft VSL, SoftCruise Control may allow the vehicle speed to fall 2.5 mph below the VSL before full fuel is demanded by the governor. This can lead to a perceived (not an actual) loss of power.
Recommendations:
Set to customer’s preference.