MSD 8731 Installation

MSD 2-Step Launch Control

for Ford 5.0L Mod Motors 2011

PN 8731

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Parts In cluded:

1 - 2-Step Launch Control
1 - Harness

The 2-Step Launch Control is a low rpm limiter only. The factory speed limiter will not be affected.

This MSD 2-Step Launch Control is designed for Ford Modular 5.0L engines with Coil-on-Plug ignitions. The
2-Step Control switches to a lower rpm limit that will assist in consistent launches and 60-foot times. RPM
adjustments are made via two rotary switches located on the harness side of the unit. The adjustment range
is from 1,000 - 10,900 rpm, in 100 rpm increments. An LED will illuminate when the launch rev limit is active.

Note: It is recommended to have the Service Manual for your vehicle. If you cannot identify an

activation wire, a microswitch or relay may be required.

Note: The engine rpm must drop more than one third of the set launch limit in order to activate. For

example, if the launch limit is set at 3,000 rpm, the engine speed must drop below 2,000 rpm
in order for the launch limit to become active (one third of 3,000 rpm is a 1,000 rpm drop).

Caution: Keeping the engine on a lower rpm limit may cause the Check Engine light to come on

and could potentially damage the catalytic converter.

IMPORTANT: Due to wiring variations on different models, MSD cannot identify specific wiring on

the clutch switches. Consult your Service Manual for wiring schematics.

Parts Bag:

1 - Tap
3 - Mounting Screws

MOUNTING

The 2-Step Control can be mounted in any
position but keep in mind to mount it so the
rotary dials are accessible for adjustments
(Figure 1). Hardware is supplied for mounting.
Before mounting the unit, confirm that the
wiring harnesses reach their connections.

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ROTARY

DIALS

Figure 1 Accessible Rotary Dials.

2 INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

WIRING

8-WIRE CONNECTOR

Tan (8) Signal Connections.

8-WIRE CONNECTOR

Red 12 volt Connection through this single Red wire.

3-WIRE CONNECTOR

Black Connects to a good engine round or the negative battery terminal.

Blue Activation Wire. When grounded, the launch feature will be active.

White/Blue Activation Wire. When switched to 12 volts, the launch feature will be active.

1. Connect the 3-pin harness to the 2-step and connect the Black wire to the good engine or chassis
ground.

2. Disconnect the 2-pin connectors from each of the eight ignition coils.

3. Connect all eight of the 2-pin male connectors from the MSD harness into the factory coil connectors.

4. Plug the 8-pin connector with the single Red wire from the 2-Step to the connector with Black wires.

5. Turn the key to the On position - do NOT start the engine. Look at the LED on the 2-Step:

LED On - This confirms that the wiring is correct and you can move to step 6 (Figure 2).

LED Off - The wiring is different for this application and needs to be changed. Turn the key Off, plug the

8-pin connector with the eight Gray wires into the connector with the single Red wire (Figure 3).

6. Connect the 8-pin harness with the tan wires to the remaining connector on the harness.

7. Connect all eight of the female 2-pin connectors from the MSD harness into the factory coils.

ACTIVATION

WIRES

WHITE BLUE

BLUE

GRAY

STEP 1

ACTIVATES

WITH 12 VOLTS

OR GROUND

GROUND

TAN

STEP 2

RED

BLACK

STEP 3 & 4

Figure 2 Wiring the 2-Step Launch Control.

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