Jason Mauldin wrote:
Is it even possible to make an automatic skip first and launch in 2nd? I've always understood that It's quicker to launch at 70% throttle in first then 100% throttle in second.
Mine will "lock" into either first, second, or third using the shifter (labeled locations on the shifter) and can launch in any of the three. It can be downshifted manually into any of those three at any speed but won't actually downshift until the "computer" says it is OK.
"Rumor" has it that manual upshifts are slower than automatic full throttle upshifts but in autocross or similar situations the automatic could easily go past the gear needed if the driver lifts/brakes. I'm assuming that the trick would be to launch in first (traction permitting) and then while still at full throttle immediately move the shifter to second for the rest of an autocross course. Then the trans would shift as needed to second, either at full throttle or when lifting/braking. Second is slightly taller with the automatic with 3:15's (stock) than the 5.0 manual with 3:31's. (Just because I have no intention of autocrossing the car doesn't mean I haven't researched stuff . . . just in case.

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FYI the 2013 5.0 automatic will have "select shift" to allow drivers at track events to choose their gear better.
Mine can lock out 6th with a "brake assist button" on the shifter or go directly to 3rd with the shifter but 4th is up to the computer. So far I haven't had enough opportunity to figure out how to get 4th reliably on the highway without getting 3rd. Things get "fast" quickly in 3rd with heavy throttle. Too fast for most commute situations, especially if you have no idea whether an officer of the law is nearby.
Dick
Drives another "arrest me red" Mustang 5.0