So I was wondering, In regards to the 2009 Tacoma's

What is A ATRAC Traction Control & Vehicle Stability Control??? What is the pros / cons. Are these options REALLY going to be useful or just cause problems?

 

Stability control is a safety feature, it will be usefull. Traction control, well that depends on how much you like traction. Some performance oriented drivers turn it off when they drive. Grandmas leave it on all the time.

 

Hmmmm, Thats what I thought.... So whats the difference between the 2??

 

Traction control will just slow your wheel down or transfer power so you have maximum traction.

On the stability control, it depends on how it's implemented. Some stability control systems actually use the ABS system to apply brake to a particular wheel to prevent you from tipping in a hard turn. It's all done by the computer. Some smart guy figured out what to do to prevent you from tipping over during routine/hard maneuvers. And they use that to control the wheels speed so you won't tip the FK over.

 

That just doesn't sound good... I but all that stuff will cause problems with an aftermarket lift...

 

Does anyone know if the Electric locking diff is still going to be part of the TRD offroad pkg; with the traction control overridden during locking diff use? How about the clutch pack limited slip in the sport models, and also offered as a stand alone option on some models? At least some of the models that had no traction adding device will finally have something better than the performance of an open difff; like the reg cabs which for '09 will have better traction while you are enjoying the basic bench seat. Seems like everytime they add a somewhat useful option, they have to take something away.........

 

----------------------------------------------------------------
Yup, but not that bad, read some of the current Tundra stuff.

 

I don't think I'm too thrilled on those options, They would be stupid if they removed the E-locker. I'm pretty sure that the clutch packed LSD would be eliminated for sure though.

 

All models VSC/TRAC, and auto-LSD, just like the Tundra.

From what I've seen Locker is there on the Off Road, no TRAC/VSC when its on, operates like before.

TRD Sport's mechanical LSD is dead. So you get AUTO-LSD...like every other model, after you hold the VSC button down for 3 sec. Kinda loses one of the Sport's main unique features, IMO. Still useful for 2wd owners, but if 4wd, doesn't work in 4wd, only 2wd... So if your going into rough terrain/getting stuck, why would you bother to use it when you can just throw in in 4wd instead?

Yes the clutches eventually wear, but I like the Mech LSD, always 'on', no throttle cutting/ABS pulsing, just two wheels spinning when I tell it to.

 

I always though the LSD is a better device then 'traction control' from what I understand you have a computer controlling your brakes to each individual wheel depending on the pressure on it (like in a turn) am I right? If I am FORGET that!!!! (Even though I took my LSD out)

 

i was wondering the same thing. ABS is a good feature to have right? at least thats what i thought until i experienced my trucks ABS and realized that its scary as hell. it has messed up twice now, once on a trail at a dead stop it started fighting me and once when i was driving under 5mph going to the mailbox it freaked out. if they cant even get ABS right in this truck what makes you think they can get this other stuff done right? imo the more stuff thats controlled by a computer the worse the truck. i'd rather not have this stuff

 

ATRAC is for off roading. I think it can only be engaged when the locker is on in 4lo. I could be wrong though, I havn't lurked the blue forums for awhile.

 

Agreed,

All this electronic gadgetry (ABS, tire pressure sensors, stability control, etc.) is designed to keep low skilled drivers from flying off the road. I think there will come a day when your truck or car will drive its self to wherever you want to go. No more crappy drivers on the road, just computer driven cars!

 

vsc
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MfNBWjJ4Pc8



atrac
Traction is automatically applied to the tires with the best grip.




examle of both being used....hehe
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-_OtbXmu9kg


Both are good features to have thay had to the safety of the vehicle. trac control and vsc can both be shut off via a switch on the dash. so if you have the option get both that way you get safer everyday driving but when its time to hit the trails you can shut if off if you so choose.