A-TRAC/TRAC/AUTO LSD Explained (Easy to understand, I hope!)

This really has been discussed hundreds of times since 2009...
AUTO LSD is the traction control (limited slip) option that does NOT cut engine power in 2WD.
In 4WD-HI, it is called TRAC OFF... same process, however.

If you don't press the button and keep it in TRAC then the system cuts the power and can apply breaks to stop tire spin.

 

So my question is.. which 4x4 settings do I use to pull my buddy's Chevy Colorado out when he gets stuck?

 

A-TRAC and the Rear Locked for pulling, no engine cut as with A-TRAC alone (reduces wheel spin ).
I have pulled more than one truck up a steep hill that way. Click the video in my sig to see one.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9m1u1pba4Ps

 

I'd like to apologize now for bring up what has probably been discussed in here a few times at least! However, Im not finding a simple answer.

2013 TRD Sport:
In 4 high, what is the difference between no button push, short button push?

I know that 3 second long button push shuts off TRAC and VSC, but Im struggling to find a difference between no button push and short button push. UGH.

 

Do you have a light coming on that says TRAC OFF?
2012 + models have that feature with the quick push in H4. It is limited slip traction control with the engine regulation of regular TRAC turned OFF for more power to pull ahead.
In H2 it is called AUTO LSD, but the same affect.

 

Yep. When I short push it says Trac off and I can hear the brakes doing their thing. So with no push, it also does engine power regulation in 4h?

 

No push is regular TRAC which combines brake and engine output regulation (throttle control) in both H2 and H4. Limited Slip Lite!

2009-2011 does not have the option of quick push. They are always in limited slip 'strong' (no engine regulation), only it was called TRAC in H4 those years.

I have no idea why the felt a need to add a 10th drive mode in 2012, with TRAC (Lite) made normal and push for TRAC OFF or really TRAC STRONG!

 

thanks. Now I understand!

 

Great, I'm not sure if I really do! LOL

 

So since I have just the Sport I have no locker. so I am essentially stuck with open diffs in 4 lo correct?
4WD-Lo: VSC and TRAC are both off in L4 ('open differentials').

 

Yep.
If you wanted off road traction systems, then the off road trd has them.
You might do the yellow wire mod to help in L4.

 

Yellow wire mod? ok I wills search first.

 

Also called the 4 Lo Trac Mod, it tricks the computer into thinking you are in H4 which has traction control when you are really in L4 for crawling or climbing. Traction control is electronic limited slip so tires that can move you get more power instead of just the tires that will spin the easiest.

 

Yeah been reading the threads on it since last night. Looks good. All you guys though talking about shifting patterns I forget, you guys have autos, I have manual. This will work till I get my lockers.
and thank you!

 

Remember, letting air out of the tires can have more traction improvement than expensive aftermarket equipment. Buy a fast air pump to refill the tires after wheeling.

 

I usually air down to 13psi, and I carry a pump behind the seat. I'll post a video shortly.

 

Corral Canyon, Sidewinder Trail hanging out with a bunch of SoCalXJ

 

My question is when do you flip the switch? before turning the 4wd on? or can you do it while in 4lo?

 

Is still still good for a 2015 Tacoma?

 

As an Off Road owner, I can't relay the exact procedure, but since the traction control is only normally active in H4, you would need it in L4.

What I am not sure of with the yellow wire mod is 2012-2015 with TRAC OFF being made selectable instead of standard in H4. When in L4, do you have both TRAC and TRAC OFF or just one?