The upcoming 2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302 is undoubtedly a high-performance track tool, boasting 444 horsepower from the factory and a specially tuned suspension aimed at closed course driving.
But for drivers who want just a little more out of their Boss 302, Ford will supply owners with a special TracKey, which automatically tells the powertrain control module – PCM – that the driver wants to experience a competition-ready track experience. The key engages a software upgrade called TracMode on the Boss 302′s PCM that alters more than 200 engine management paramenters, most notably an increase in low-end torque.
“From an engine management standpoint, we’ve done just about everything possible to give TracKey users a full race car experience,†said Jeff Seaman, a Mustang powertrain engineer, in a statement released to the media. “It’s not for use on the street – for example, the deceleration is set up to preserve the brakes, and the throttle response is very aggressive. A skilled driver on a closed course will really appreciate the benefits.â€
The TracKey PCM software is installed after a customer takes delivery, preventing dealership techs from having too much fun. The upgrades adjust variable cam timing, spark maps, engine braking, fuel control and more for a race-tuned calibration. Any daily driver-style refinement built in from the factory is removed thanks to the dual-path PCM.
The system is based on Ford’s MyKey, which is usually used to limit vehicle performance for younger drivers.
“We installed the 302R software on the same PCM that held the stock Boss software,†said Seaman. “Then the controls engineers developed a software system to activate one or the other, depending upon which key was used to start the vehicle. Really, all the parts to make this work existed – the Ford MyKey system was already using the PATS (Passive Anti Theft System) transceiver to perform specific actions based on the key used to start the car, and the PCM was flexible enough to handle multiple control modules. It was just putting everything together.â€
The TracKey is distinguished by its unique red and black Boss 302 logo, while the Boss 302′s standard key features a black logo. Ford hasn’t said if the TracKey will be used for the recently-announced track day at Utah’s Miller Motorsports Park included with Boss 302 purchase.
