A liquid discharge system includes a liquid product pump having a sensor for monitoring vibrations passing through an outer casing of the liquid product pump to detect an occurrence of cavitation within the liquid product pump. A system and method for controlling the operation of a liquid product pump in an engine-driven hydraulic discharge system. The liquid product pump has a vibration sensor operable to detect cavitation within the liquid product pump and for providing an electrical vibration signal to a speed control module. The speed control module is operable to process the vibration signal and to produce an electrical speed control signal that is provided to an electronic actuator. The electronic actuator is operable to actuate a motor control lever of a variable speed hydraulic motor to adjust the operating speed of the liquid product pump.