Just to clarify autopilot is for your direction or heading that you want to go. Cruise control is for a constant speed. Cruise control will cause the motor to ramp up and down as needed. I don't use the cruise control. I like the surge and pause waves create. Like others have said, set the trolling motor between 4-5 power with the autopilot on for direction and use the main motor (or kicker) to get the speed desired. One thing to watch is the head of the trolling motor. If it continues to point a little to the left or right more than straight you will need to make a small correction to the main motor to help it go straight. Hope this helps.