Fryguy22

I heard that the traction control turns shuts down 2 valves of the engine when its on. I'm not sure if its true and it doesnt really make sense to me. Can anyone explain exactly how the Ford traction control system works. (i have a 99 GT)

MustangMafia

basically when excessive wheel spin or slip is detected, the system retards the engine cutting power to the spinning wheel, it also applies the brakes to that wheel. I'm not sure if it actually just cuts a couple cylinders or not, but it does cut power to the spinning wheel.

Fryguy22

So basically if I am racing i should turn it off?

MustangMafia

Definitely! Try launching with it on. If you do even a little bit of excessive wheel spin it will bog the motor down hardcore.

03redGT

racing how? if your talking about street racing, leave it on, rather be safe than spin out in a corner and end up in a tree or worse someone elses car.

MustangMafia

I dont know what kind of street racing you do, but the only races on the street I have done have been in a straight line on an uncrowded street/highway.

03redGT

im talking about corners and such. ive seen a friend of mine fold his car around a tree going around a small corner while racing in his car. all it takes is a split second of inattention.
im just stressing being careful. i reccomend racing on a straight road, better on the highway or even better, at the track.
your right about the launch, the traction control boggs really bad, but only if you spin. if you get a good grab, its golden.

tool fan

How about racing on the German Autobahn, which is obviously what I will be doing......On or Off???

MustangMafia

Ummmmm it only really hurts your launch, unless you are going to be sliding corners. If you are doing any race on the street that isnt 100% straight line, I'd suggest turning it on...

V8Cody

I use to turn it off right when i turned my 99 GT on. It became such a habit...just like putting my seatbelts on. It was something I ALWAYS did. Once in a GREAT while i would turn it on when it was raining. It really is for un-experienced drivers or people that want to be really safe.