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Launch Control 101
Brian Barnhill - Tuner Tools, LLC

Launch Control

What is it, how does it work and do I need it?

A proper launch is key to success in any level racing. Eliminating wheel spin and wheel hop, maximizing traction, weight transfer and power off the line, and in forced induction car, to build boost before launch are all critical components in the launch of any vehicle. The ability to do all of these consistently and in a controlled fashion with as little impact to the vehicle as practical is key to success in any level of racing. Sophisticated traction control systems can aid in the traction and wheel spin areas, but work by limiting your power. This can seem counterintuitive when you “want to go fast.” In addition, true traction control systems sophisticated enough for racing applications are available only in a handful of exotic cars with a price tag much out of the traditional “tuners” budget. The solution for all of these problems, however, is quite simple: Launch Control Interface.

What is launch control, and how does it work?

Launch control (sometimes known as a stutterbox or 2 step rev limiter) are fairly simple, yet effective in ensuring consistent reliable launches at the track, strip or even on the street. The user defines a “launch rpm” that, when launch control is activated, the vehicle will maintain. This allows the user to hold the car at full throttle while still maintaining a suitable RPM for launch, based on vehicle capabilities, traction, wheel hop, etc. Turbocharged cars see an additional benefit in the ability to build boost before the vehicle leaves the line. These capabilities lead to smoother, consistent and reliable launches with maximum power from the moment you leave the line. This will help lower your 60ft times and/or help you be the first into the corner.

 Launch control units such as the Gizzmo Electronics Launch Interface work by intentionally creating a misfire event in random cylinders when launch control is activated (commonly activated through the use of a clutch switch and/or speed sensor signal.) The launch control interface intercepts the spark trigger from the ECU (note this is NOT the high voltage spark signal!) and modifies/interrupts the signal to create the misfire event to hold the vehicle at the desired launch rpm. In a turbo application, having the throttle open while inducing misfire will increase the velocity and density of exhaust gases, which will lead to turbo spool and generating boost with load. This results in boost being generated before launching and therefore allowing a vehicle to launch with considerably more power. In addition to control at launch, controllers which use a clutch activated reed switch, such as the Gizzmo Launch Interface, also can serve as a controller for flat shifting (no lift to shift) where the driver keeps the accelerator floored during a shift and simply presses the clutch to activate the second stage rev limiter. Similar to a launch event, this will cut ignition and timing to the desired rpm, preventing over-revving during the shift event. This allows the user to make quicker shifts and maintain boost while shifting.

In turbocharged vehicles, additional boost can be gained using Gizzmo Electronics LI2 ignition retard feature. Retarding the ignition from the default setting increases load, which in turn will cause the turbo to spool, thus creating more boost for launch. Each vehicle will have unique requirements to achieve maximum, yet safe, consistent and reliable power during a launch event. The ability to control the amount of timing retard only when launch control is activated allows the user to custom program the LI2 to their particular vehicle setup and requirements. When adjusting these parameters it is also suggested that Exhaust Gas Temperatures are monitored to ensure EGT levels remain in a safe range as retarding ignition can increase EGTs in such conditions.

Do I need it?

Do you want consistent launches, without wheel spin or wheel hop in your boosted or naturally aspirated car?

Do you have a boosted car and wish to build boost before you leave the line for more powerful launches?

Do you want every advantage you can get to win races, run better times and/or just get the most out of your vehicle?

If so, then a launch control interface may be a serious consideration for your vehicle.

Keep in mind that the harder you launch the vehicle, the more stress you will put on your drivetrain. Axles, driveshaft, clutche, etc must all be capable of transferring the power you’re now applying to the wheels. With sticky tires such as drag radials, these forces are only magnified. Before launching your vehicle aggressively you will want to make certain that all these components are capable of handling the higher loads.