TRAC light

[ipec]

I know that GTP's have a true-to-life TCS (Traction Control System) or ETS (Enhanced Traction System), I forget which it is called. And the GT's have something kind of like it called TRAC, or Traction System, or something. These both come with the available ABS, I believe, and both can be bypassed on the fly while driving. The on/off is located in the Vehicle Center (the onboard cluster of lights and notifications above the radio and middle vents). I'm pretty sure the function of these systems is to lower engine RPM's when drive-wheel slip is detected, thus removing torque from the slipping wheel until the slipping stops and traction can once again be had. I am wondering if anyone looking at this post can provide myself and other members with an answer as to the bottom-line effect of driving around with this TRAC off. I have heard about other vehicles (like my brother's '99 Vette) that when you take the Traction Control off, it really improves performance. Is this true? Is it ideal to disengage this, if more power is sought? For all those out there drag racing in the streets; do you take this off when doing so?

[Scott 02]

I don't believe that turning the Traction control off increases performance. People think this because the car will actually spin the wheels when taking off. I do it all the time.

[ipec]

But if what I said about the RPM's lowering is true, then having it off would mean that it will wind out more so than if it was engaged; limiting the wheel spin.

[Scott 02]

Ok if you put it that way, then yes. You would be gaining Horsepower to the front wheels. That makes sence.

[Flatrater]

Traction controls systems do the same thing in different ways but the way most work is by changing the spark timing first, next the PCM will kill spark in the cylinder for up to 3 cylinders in a V6 and lastly it will apply the brakes to stop wheel slip. Now if the first thing stops the slip the process will stop. Turning off the system will not cause you any problems but in a sense you regain a possible loss in power since the computer will not change the engine timing or kill cylinders.