BOSS 302 - Details of the TracKey ("Red" key) announced!

[PTRocks]

Link to original article on automobilemag.com

 

When buyers take delivery of their new Boss, they may notice they receive two different styles of ignition keys. A stylish touch, perhaps, but the discrete keys are actually part of Ford's new TracKey system, which allows drivers to unlock powertrain calibrations designed to improve performance -- especially on the track.

 

In some ways, TracKey uses the same principle and hardware behind the nanny-state MyKey system. Each road-going Boss 302 rolls off the assembly line with an engine computer capable of housing two different personalities, each unlocked by a specific key. In stock form, the ECM carries a single program, but buyers who desire a little something extra aren't left in the cold. For a nominal fee, dealers can reflash the ECM to add a performance-driven configuration that's activated by using the red ignition key.

 

 

Developed in partnership with Ford Racing, the TracKey's performance mode doesn't increase peak horsepower, but it can completely modify the 5.0-liter V-8's demeanor. Throttle tip-in becomes lightning-quick, while valve and cam timing is adjusted to deliver 10 additional pound-feet of low-end torque, along with a racer-like lumpy camp sensation. The fuel-saving skip-shift feature in the six-speed manual transmission is disabled, and fuel and spark are aggressively cut to help improve engine braking.

 

 

The performance calibration also blesses the Boss with another feature: two-stage launch control, which is controlled through the cruise control buttons mounted on the steering wheel. Drivers simply hold the on/off switch for five seconds, wait for the tach needle to sweep, and dial in a precise launch RPM with the accel and decel buttons. Once an engine speed is set, users simply mash the accelerator pedal, side-step the clutch, and they're off.

 

Despite its race course aspirations, the TracKey programming is still usable on the street. Although the calibrations are based off those used for the race-spec Boss 302R, Pericak notes both engine settings are emissions compliant -- although the quick throttle and menacing rumble of the track tuning "leaves refinement at the door." Better yet, Ford's factory warranty is unaffected by prolonged use of both the TracKey and the launch control system.

Edited November 11, 2010 by PTRocks

[cborsh]

that's cool.

[theoldwizard]

I think the EPA would call it a "defeat device", if it could not pass emissions with the TracKey.

[5 DOT 0]

I can't believe it's not going to add any HP. Maybe it will and Ford isn't telling anyone.

Edited December 11, 2010 by 5 DOT 0

[Maximilian]

I think the EPA would call it a "defeat device", if it could not pass emissions with the TracKey.

 

Well maybe some people like to use it as a daily driver and not completely mess up their MPG

[akirby]

Well maybe some people like to use it as a daily driver and not completely mess up their MPG

 

I'm guessing that both PCM calibrations were EPA certified. Or the fact that it has to be dealer activated makes it an aftermarket feature. I don't think the EPA would allow it otherwise.

[Big Vito]

very cool, Can't wait to see it in action

[rilesw]

Any idea on costs for the track key?