ARA cruise controls were used a lot back in the early to mid 80's on motorhomes. I installed quite a few of them. About all you have to do is install a module inline with the speedo cable down by the tranny, hook up the power and brake, wire in the control/switch, and you should be good to go.
Got any pics you can post so we can help you guess how to hook it up and see if it still has any smoke left in it?