In the stiff or soft sidewall thread there was some comments about using a launch retard to help with the issues.

Anyway, I got a pm asking about how I use the launch retard. I figured I would start a thread about it.

I have use my Holley EFI software for a launch retard & it sounds like the grid is similar or identical on how it works.

The PM explained how they use it to help with consistency. I replied with I mainly use it to help with wheelie control. I also use it to slow my ET. I used it once in May for tire shake then spin. I've never really used it for 60' to 330' consistency.

I did try it in one time hit this past weekend. The curve was a little different than I normally use & the car did not like it! I plan on revisiting this in the near future.

I hope to post up a picture of the curve soon.

I would like to hear about how our members use or don't use the launch retard.

2BKING

Using the Grid, I am actually using step 1 triggered by the K&R delay box Timer 1 to slow down from 5.20 in the heat to 5.80 for index racing. I like using step 1 and the timer that way I can make last minute changes in the lanes.
With Ron's MFI I also use timer 3 set the same as timer 1 to trigger a electronic lean out to pull fuel while the timing is pulled, thats helps a bunch.
Timer 2 use used for shifting on time.

I have found this to be really consistent and predictable. Now if I can only hit the pro tree as consistent I would be okay

Last year running a gas carb trying to slow to 5.80 using a combo of Launch retard and step 1 it was very inconsistent and it was .200 slower to start with with the gas carb

MSD Grid 7730 is a very powerful moderately priced ignition control. Many ways to activate the retard feature (like Big Steves method) to include Launch Retard programming. Holley ecu can do everything (almost) Grid can do. Because of the “almost”, my Holley EFI ignition control is divorced and Grid controls ignition exclusively. Hence the dual crank trigger pickups.

It has been my experience that controlling wheelies with Grid is better served when retard is programmed to start the moment the TB solenoid is energized, starting line launch retarded. This allows more launch consistency, and the delay box can fix anything RT related. For no-box, starting the delay 0.30 after TB release will keep your rt closer to no retard.

With an ecu one can use a height sensor to control the front wheel maximum height if desired. Mad Racing Parts offers a height sensor that is compatible with Grid that will activate a Step function to retard ignition and prevent excessive wheelies also.

I recently watched a racer replace their engine with one close to 100 hp more. The prior 6” wheelie turned into standing the vehicle on the rear bumper the first test run. When it came down, it bent the front motor plate slightly and the rear transmission brace was bowed down 2”. He ended up programming 14* timing retard the moment the TB was energized and left the retard in for a full 1.60 seconds and then ramped it to full ignition at 1.90. Still did a 12” wheelie that carried 40’ out.

As for the recent stiff or soft sidewall thread, the OP is convinced spending more money changing equipment will achieve the desired results he wants. imho, a few key strokes in Grid would do more for consistency and probably loose little to nothing in present performance with what he’s using now.

quote:

Originally posted by Big Steve:
Using the Grid, I am actually using step 1 triggered by the K&R delay box Timer 1 to slow down from 5.20 in the heat to 5.80 for index racing. I like using step 1 and the timer that way I can make last minute changes in the lanes.
With Ron's MFI I also use timer 3 set the same as timer 1 to trigger a electronic lean out to pull fuel while the timing is pulled, thats helps a bunch.
Timer 2 use used for shifting on time.

There may well be more to it but, based on what is written here, why not just land the wires for both timing retard and fuel lean-out on Timer 1? Then you only need to change one timer and they’ll always be synced.

Could of I guess but just wanted to keep them separate incase I wanted to turn the lean out on or off at different times. never been a big deal making the changes to both timers. On time is always the same, only change is off time

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Big Steve,

quote:

Originally posted by Big Steve:With Ron's MFI I also use timer 3 set the same as timer 1 to trigger a electronic lean out to pull fuel while the timing is pulled, thats helps a bunch.

Steve, if you have AFR data, how much does it change the ratio during the lean out period?

There are a couple of other things you can do to help hook the tires starting with a launch retard (Grid) system. Start with a small amount (6*) and go from there.

Additionally if you have a Dedenbear powerglide case there is an adjustment bolt at the back of the case than can be used to soften, or increase, the release of a trans brake. ATI and Dedenbear have web sites that explain the process.

Bob