I intend to replace the cruise control actuator on my X300. The job looks pretty straightforward, however I see that a pipe is attached to it and, as I am aware the system works by some kind of vacuum, will removing this pipe and then fitting the replacement result in problems of loss of air because of the the vacuum by which the system works?
Thanks.

 

Why do you intend to replace it?

 

Because some time ago my CC stopped working. With the aid of a helpful post on this forum I discovered that if the rubber surround on the actuator was punctured in any way then the CC wouldn't work. Finally I got around to checking it and with the aid of a torch I saw a very small hole in the rubber. I smeared some rubber glue around the hole, stuck some insulation tape on it and more glue. Twenty fours later I was driving and switched CC on with fingers crossed and it worked and has done since the repair.
I thought I'd fit a new one in case the repair fails at some point. It may of course last for years, but to be sure I thought I'd fit a new one.
As alluded to in my OP I'm afraid that taking the pipe off may cause vacuum problems, but I guess as it used to have a whole in the rubber any way, that won't be a problem?

 

Bif,

A while ago my speed control wasn't working. When I finally took a look around, I discovered the rubber on the actuator had a huge gash underneath. Obviously it wouldn't hold a vacuum. The hole didn't affect the operation of the vehicle at all. It only prevented the speed control from working. A new actuator fixed it.

 

As I explained in another thread, I too found a gash in the rubber. Repaired it with rubber glue and a patch similar to repairing a bicycle tyre inner tube.
Have found a new one on eBay, but i don't think the seller posts to Spain! Saving me money I suppose!
Thanks.