Traction Control / Overdrive Default off Module- working prototype

RE: Traction Control / Overdrive Default off Module- working prototype

Wow, thats a very cool idea... my hats comes off to you for tackling such project and making a module for it. First the height controller switches, now this... All i need now is another Mark, and im all set.

Speaking of which... I still got extra keys for my mark...}(
 
RE: Traction Control / Overdrive Default off Module- working prototype

A cautionary note: I live in Florida, and once I had installed the MMX bar, 3.73 gears and Auburn limited slip, I got in the habit of turning off the TC every morning as part of my start-up procedure. It hadn't rained in ages, but this particular morning I noticed that it had rained. Nice, I thought. It didn't occur to me that in fact it had rained all night long, as the ditches on the roadside were full. I didn't notice that, either, until later. There is a beautiful straight road with no stops on my route, and I was bugged that the guy ahead of my insisted on doing 49 in a 55 where 60 is the rule. Nobody coming so I ease around him and gently accelerate...but either I'm a little off or the shift kit is or a combination of both...and she downs from 4 to 2 instantly breaking loose both rear tires on the now apparent oily wet road (it's the way it works in FL after a dry spell). What started as fishtailing quickly turned into going in the right direction, only backwards. Then the mad spinning in circles...then into the ditch sideways, farming the mud and coming to a stop just short of the trees. All the mud and the water had slowed me down...or I could be one of those roadside crosses. Now maybe the TC would not have mattered in this case, what with the human shortcomings I've described. But I leave it on now, and don't mind turning it off when I want to play. I don't mind the light on. I kinda like it now.
 
RE: Traction Control / Overdrive Default off Module- working prototype

Well glad you are alright! I definately dont want to feel responsible for someone skidding off into a ditch and or being one of those crosses. However, If you are one who decides to delete this option from your chip or buy a module to default it "off" or for that matter buy a car without the option in the first place then you know very well the risk involved when you make your decision. I don't have a problem remembering to turn mine "on" when I think it may become a useful tool or (maybe not). If one feels they need that feature to keep safe and cannot remember to turn it on then by all means leave it alone. If a person cant remember to put their seatbelt on then they have no business tampering with safety features already built into their car. I am not directing these comments at you just generalizing. Most cars of this time did not even have traction control. We cant pad the world because of human shortcommings... altho some may try.
Thanks for your input and If I decide to start selling these things I will definately add an appropriate disclaimer and general warning.

But for now ...I think this says it all:

Driving, racing, repairing, modifying, or restoring cars can be hazardous. The procedures and advice contained within this web site, including the message boards, are provided “as is” for general information purposes only. If you do not have the skills or tools to repair your car, please consult a professional auto technician. The Lincolns of Distinction Car Club, Inc., its officers, members, and webmasters assume no liability for any damage, fines, punishment, injury or death resulting from information obtained from this site. The Lincolns of Distinction Car Club, Inc. recommends that you only race your car with proper safety equipment on an approved, supervised track. Please refer to the Lincolns of Distinction Terms Of Use Policy for more information.

Danny
http://home.att.net/~ndoghouse/m8/ufosig.jpg
93 Opalescent/Med Opal "UFO"
74 F100(69 302 4bbl Edlbrk,hdrs,heads...)
66 Mercedes 230S
 
Traction Control / Overdrive Default off Module- working prototype

Hey everyone! I finally got annoyed with hitting the OD and Traction control button everytime I cranked the car and everytime I hit the staging lanes so by necessity I developed a module that will automatically default them in the off position after the car is started. The switches maintain normal functionallity in case you want to turn something on or off again later. It installs with simple squeeze taps and so far has worked perfectly for me. You can use either option or one independantly if desired. I might add that I drive a Gen 1. Soon as I get a gen 2 and an oscilloscope together I'll make one for it as well. I plan to make ten prototype modules soon and give them away in exchange for honest opinions. If they seem like something people might want I will continue to make them.
I'm having a hard time breaking the habbit of hitting the buttons at startup but I've been driving these cars for almost ten years now. Would like to know what everyone thinks. Thanks for your inputs!
Danny
http://home.att.net/~ndoghouse/m8/ufosig.jpg
93 Opalescent/Med Opal "UFO"
74 F100(69 302 4bbl Edlbrk,hdrs,heads...)
66 Mercedes 230S
 
RE: Traction Control / Overdrive Default off Module- working prototype

I notice you have a Gen2 vehicle in your post, so I'll assume it's yours. A Gen1 vehicle just uses the brakes when the T/C is activated. A Gen2 cuts engine power as well as stopping the spinning wheel.
 
RE: Traction Control / Overdrive Default off Module- working prototype

[div class="dcquote"][strong]Quote[/strong]
I'm with Danny. How about the times when someone tries to accelerate to merge into traffic before that big 18 wheeler approaches, and the TC cuts off your power at the worst possible time.[/div]

I kinda doubt that your t/c is going to engage when you are doing 50 mph trying to merge with traffic on an on ramp. From a standing start maybe, but while merging??? Comeon!!

Bud Pytko
'97 LSC Silver Frost
'05 F250 SD CC PSD 4 X 4 AZ Beige
'94 Prowler 5th Wheel
http://squarebirds.org/images/BudPytko97LSC.jpg
 
RE: Traction Control / Overdrive Default off Module- working prototype

You said 50 mph on an on ramp, I didn't. I consider going from a secondary road at a stop sign to a main highway with traffic bearing down as merging. You better be merging. :)

And tc on a 2nd gen is full time so I suppose it is possible using your example.


 
RE: Traction Control / Overdrive Default off Module- working prototype

Update:
Got all the parts in. Now I just have to find time to assemble and wire them up. Looks like i should be done around the weekend of the 8th of July if all goes well. Im trying to put everything in a small box one inch square by half an inch tall. Gonna be tight. Will use potting compound to fill the box so it will look like an inch square box with four wires coming out with wire taps for connections. Will also be virtually indestructable and waterproof. Will also do photo instructions for the installation procedure. Installation is about as simple as it gets.
BTW: I left my module over at Jeff's (member SVO)at his last get together and I sure miss it! Was just getting trained to not hit the buttons. Don't realize how much you like something till its gone! Now I'm really convinced this is a good thing!
Danny
http://home.att.net/~ndoghouse/m8/ufosig.jpg
93 Opalescent/Med Opal "UFO"
74 F100(69 302 4bbl Edlbrk,hdrs,heads...)
66 Mercedes 230S
 
RE: Traction Control / Overdrive Default off Module- working prototype

Hey Gen 1'ers!
Looks like we got a go for the design of the module. I have tested it and I just cant make it fail! Was especially nice at the track not to have to worry bout it! I have another one I'm testing now and it goes to Jeff (SVO) for the "Grey Ghost" It uses a dual 556 timer. Sierra...Your next! I will connectorize the first revisions in case changes need to be made in the future. That way you could just send it in for replacement if necessary. What I mean say if your alternator starts putting out 25 volts or lightning hits your car or something weird like that. I think I have plenty of protection built in already that you cannot destroy it by miswiring, overheating, spilling coke on it...etc but you never know. Going slower than expected but want to make sure all is right the first time.
oh and John...I'm using 556 dual timer now I think I'll stay with it for gen 1. I have also found an obsoleted (Fairchild Semi) but avaliable by the millions. I may use it for the Gen2 version. It is a Monostable vibrator as well but has three outputs and independently configurable which has many components built in. It is about 20 pin SOIC and would definately be compact but not much fun prototyping.
More later when they become "photogenic" and I get some more people wanting to be Beta testers (that means FREE modules in exchange for opinions)!

Later on!
Danny
http://home.att.net/~ndoghouse/m8/ufosig.jpg
93 Opalescent/Med Opal "UFO"
74 F100(69 302 4bbl Edlbrk,hdrs,heads...)
66 Mercedes 230S
 
RE: Traction Control / Overdrive Default off Module- working prototype

Danny, you can add me to the list...

Should be at Jeff's this weekend, we're picking up a car on saturday.
We can discuss this further over some Shiners this weekend.

have a good day sir

Tommy

P.S. might have a bunch of misc parts left over from this new project.
Stay tuned.
 
RE: Traction Control / Overdrive Default off Module- working prototype

Wow, ill bet the Stang guys r happy about this as much as we are. Jeese the Gen 2 cars sound alot more advanced using that protocall resistor system. Great job and Kudos to the hack into the FORD system. I knew it could be done, and someone could do it, it was only a matter of time...:) :)
I remember back in the days before SCT and the tuner stuff was available that noone could mod a mod motor cause the computer had this "special hexidecimal code". They were all yanking the fuel injection to go carburetor setups and the 4.6 motor "was junk". Now look what we got. 2 valve GTs running 10's and 9's. Too cool. Keep up the great work.

1995 DK Blue Lincoln Mark VIII
1998 DK Blue Chevrolet 1500 P/U
 
RE: Traction Control / Overdrive Default off Module- working prototype

Just an update. I havent forgotten anyone. Still testing. Got the traction control default 100% but have an ocasional bug with the OD part. I have isolated it down to connection problem with my test fixture and am testing it now in my car so need more test time. I think my test connector was worn out. Which means it works fine but my test fixture needs fixin! Have reduced the parts down to one timer holding the signal high for six seconds and then letting it go back to ground after. Need to hardwire my new circuit in this weekend and will post results later. If all is good in a week then I will make some more. If it aint then Ill keep on werkin but I aint givin up! Just want it 100% before I send any parts to anyone.
For circuit details I began posting here:
http://www.markviii.org/htdocs/dc/d...ic_id=30401&mesg_id=30401&listing_type=search
now Im a member here so I will follow up on this site.
Danny
http://home.att.net/~ndoghouse/m8/ufosig.jpg
93 Opalescent/Med Opal "UFO"
74 F100(69 302 4bbl Edlbrk,hdrs,heads...)
66 Mercedes 230S
 
RE: Traction Control / Overdrive Default off Module- working prototype

I'm ready when you are! :)
 
RE: Traction Control / Overdrive Default off Module- working prototype

I don't know the resistance & capacitance values to introduce the correct delays off the top of my head, but wouldn't something as simple as this work?

http://www.lincolnsclub.org/forum/user_files/1728.gif

Excuse the schematic I made w/ MS Paint in 2 minutes. :) There should be a filter cap & diode on the power supply too. The timing wouldn't be precise, but for this purpose I think it'd do the trick.

Of course the output would be more like a sine wave than a digital pulse.. If that caused any problems, isolating the output w/ a relay would fix it.
 
RE: Traction Control / Overdrive Default off Module- working prototype

Yep I think your right! Got something like that sitting on my desk at work now. Only difference is I used a transistor to switch the output and the RC at the gate. First iteration was definately overkill. Guess iz just havin too much fun at the time! I don't think the computer cares about the sine wave while the cap is charging.Im playing around with values at work but too many bosses in the lab :) I used a couple of diodes for isolating the two signals otherwise when you manually punched one button they would both engage together. I do have a filter cap and diode on the front end. Your idea is even more simple. I'll try that too. Thanks for the idea! Ill let you know if it works.
Danny
http://home.att.net/~ndoghouse/m8/ufosig.jpg
93 Opalescent/Med Opal "UFO"
74 F100(69 302 4bbl Edlbrk,hdrs,heads...)
66 Mercedes 230S
 
RE: Traction Control / Overdrive Default off Module- working prototype

My tracktion control switch has never worked properly. Somone edjucate me.

Thank You,

Bob Armer
 
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